Al-Nassr takes on Al-Ittihad in Saudi Super Cup semi-final in Hong Kong

HONG KONG: The 2025 Saudi Super Cup semi-finals start this week with Al-Nassr facing Al-Ittihad in Hong Kong.

The two clubs, among the strongest in the Saudi Professional League, will content a spot in the final.

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The other semi-final will feature Al-Ahli against Al-Qadsiah. The winners will meet in the final later this week.  

Al-Nassr’s new leadership and squad changes

Al-Nassr is entering the competition under new management. After an underwhelming previous season, the club appointed a new head coach, Jorge Jesus, to improve team performance.

The squad was strengthened with several high-profile signings. Cristiano Ronaldo, confirmed to remain with the club through 2027, will lead the attack.

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Joao Felix, the talented Portuguese forward, alongside former Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez and French winger Kinglsey Coman.

Al-Ittihad aim to defend title

Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad entered the tournament as reigning Saudi Professional League champions. The team recently added key players such as Mohammad Hazazi, Adnan al-Bishri, and Hamad al-Ghamdi from local rivals.

Mohamed al-Absi returned from loan.

The new signings are aimed at bolstering the squad to maintain championship form.

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The coaching staff, led by Laurent Blanc, will work to keep the team’s performance consistent against strong opposition.

Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah prepare for semi-final battle

Recent AFC Champions League winners, Al-Ahli reinforced their said with French midfield prospect Enzo Millot. The young player is expected to add a strong ‘attacking drive’ following a strong previous season finish.

Similarly, Al-Qadsiah, promoted back to the top tier last season, also strengthened their squad. they signed Serie A scorer Mateo Retegui, along with Saudi playmaker Musab Al-Juwayr, who finished as the “Young Player of the Year” last season.

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Veteran defender Yasser al-Shahrani also returned to the ‘boyhood’ club, providing defensive stability.