Why all eyes are on the Riyadh Derby 2026
Here’s what you need to know
If you’ve heard anything about Saudi football, you’d know that the fiercest rivals on this side of the world in the local scene are Riyadh-based football clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. And this Tuesday, they’re going head-to-head at the Riyadh Derby 2026.
Also known as the Capital Derby or the Derby of Fury, the match is happening on Tuesday May 12, at Al-Nassr‘s home ground Al-Awwal Park (formerly known as King Saud University Stadium or Mrsool Park). The match will see Roshn Saudi League leaders Al Nassr host second-placed Al Hilal, with only three full rounds remaining in the season, and will begin at 9pm.
Al-Hilal seem to be at a competitive advantage at the moment, having just won the King’s Cup final this past Friday thanks to Theo Hernandez’s decisive goal in a 2-1 win over Al Kholood. a ceremony attended by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud. The reigning champions now sit two points behind Al Nassr.
The El Clásico in Saudi Arabia, if you will
This high-stakes, all-in match is preceded by a history of over 170 official matches, with Al-Hilal historically dominating (with 19 league titles). Matches between these two Saudi legends tend to serve up rivalry, drama and controversial decisions nearly every time (if not every time). The rivalry began with the first official meeting in the King’s Cup in 1964, long before any of the big international names joined the league (although that has added a certain edge to the already nail-biting matches).
Tickets
Tickets are already available and cost just SAR10. You can book yours here.
Where to watch?
Want to watch the big game from the comfort of your own couch? You can stream the game live via Thmanyah.
Location: Al-Awwal Park
Timing: 9pm
Cost: SAR10, book here
Images: Getty
