Saudi Pro League January 2026 Recap: AFCON Glory, Riyadh Derby Drama, and Title Race Twists

The Saudi Pro League’s January 2026 chapter delivered drama on every front. The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco provided the platform where SPL stars stole the spotlight. Still in January 2026, the fiery Riyadh derby reshaped the title race, underscoring the dynamism of the SPL and its growing appeal. 

With Al Hilal pulling clear at the top, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney battling for the Golden Boot, and surprise challengers like Al Taawoun refusing to fade, the league continues to prove its global competitiveness. 

This recap brings together the key stories, standout performances, and transfer updates that defined the month, setting the stage for an electrifying second half of the season.

Sadio Mané Leads Saudi Pro League Stars to AFCON 2025 Triumph

The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final in Rabat was a showcase of Saudi Pro League (SPL) talent. In the final showcase of the competition, Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal. 

The match was marred by controversy when Morocco were awarded a late penalty, prompting Senegal to briefly walk off the pitch. It was Sadio Mané (Al Nassr) who convinced his teammates to return, and Édouard Mendy (Al Ahli) saved Brahim Díaz’s audacious Panenka attempt.

Here are the key SPL players that made an impact at the AFCON in Morocco:

Mané summed up the SPL’s rising stature: “This proves beyond any doubt that the Saudi league today is classified among the strongest and best leagues in the world.” Mane’s role in convincing his Senegalese teammates to return to the pitch and combined with Bounou’s heroics and Mendy’s crucial save, cemented the SPL’s reputation as a league producing world-class talent.

The dominant role of SPL players at AFCON was a highlight in January given the quality and influence these players injected into their national sides. The takeaway from the tournament focuses on the growth of the SPL in both its reach and quality on offer. With the AFCON tournament finished, these players are set to return to their respective SPL clubs as the season enters its second half in earnest. 

Riyadh Derby Drama: Al Hilal Defeat 10-Man Al Nassr

On 12 January 2026, Al Hilal defeated Al Nassr 3-1 in the Riyadh derby, opening a seven-point lead at the top. This lead has since been pegged back by second-placed Al Nassr down to 5 points following Al Hilal’s 1-1 draw away to Al Riyadh in the SPL.

Al Hilal’s win against Al Nassr, their direct rivals for the Saudi Pro League title, was a seismic shift in the league dynamics in the 2025/26 season. Here are the main aspects of the Riyadh derby:

• 42’ – Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 15th league goal.
• 57’ – Salem Al-Dawsari converted a penalty.
• 60’ – Al Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi was sent off.
• 81’ – Mohammed Kanno scored a stunning volley.
• 90+2’ – Rúben Neves sealed the win with a penalty.

This was a major development in January. Given Al Nassr’s  imperious form in the 2025/26 season, Simone Inzaghi’s side took significant bragging rights and an impetus in the fight for the league this season.

Saudi Pro League Standings: A Four-Team Title Race

As of 28 January 2026, the Saudi Pro League standings are as follows:

January saw the crystallization of the Saudi Pro League into a robust four-team title-race. Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Qadsiah are all firmly in contention. Each side brings distinct strengths and narratives that will shape the latter stages of the campaign. 

Leaders Al Hilal (45 points) lead chasers Al Ahli by 2 points and Al Nassr by 5 points and six points ahead of Al Qadsiah (they are on 39 points) after 17 matches (Al Ahli have played one more match than the rest) in the 2025/26 season, as of 28 January 2026.

The month of January belongs to Al Hilal. They remain the frontrunners, unbeaten after 17 matches and boasting the deepest squad in the league. Their consistency under Simone Inzaghi has been remarkable, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair from stars like Aleksandar Mitrović and Salem Al‑Dawsari. With momentum on their side, Hilal look well‑placed to sustain their lead through January and beyond, though the pressure of remaining unbeaten could weigh heavily as the season progresses.

Al Nassr, despite a blistering start of ten consecutive wins, have faltered in recent weeks. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to lead the scoring charts, while João Félix adds creativity. However, defensive lapses and costly red cards have undermined their form. Jorge Jesus must stabilize his side quickly if they are to close the gap on Hilal.

Al Ahli have quietly emerged as serious contenders in the month of January. Their balanced approach, anchored by Édouard Mendy in goal and Riyad Mahrez in attack, has yielded consistency. With 43 points after 18 matches in the 2025/26 season, as of 29 January 2026, they are within 2 points of the top of the table and could capitalize if either of the traditional giants stumble.

Al Qadsiah are the surprise package; this status has been cemented throughout the month of January 2026. Promoted only recently, they have shocked observers with a potent attack and one of the best goal differences in the league. Their resilience suggests they could remain in the fight, though squad depth may be tested in the run‑in.

Looking ahead, the title race promises drama. Al Hilal’s dominance makes them favorites, but the chasing trio all have the quality to mount a challenge. The second half of the season will hinge on consistency, squad rotation, and handling pressure in high‑stakes fixtures.

Saudi Pro League Top Scorers: Ronaldo vs Toney Battle

The Saudi Pro League Golden Boot race has become one of the most captivating storylines of the 2025‑26 season. There are five elite forwards pushing each other to new heights. The latest instalment of this enthralling race happens throughout January 2026. The chase is as follows, as of 29 January 2026:

After his hattrick against Al Ettifaq on Wednesday 28th, Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney leads the scoring charts with 18 goals. The Englishman has adapted quickly to Saudi football, bringing Premier League‑honed sharpness to Al Ahli’s attack. His ability to combine hold‑up play with decisive finishing makes him a unique threat, particularly in tight matches.

Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr) continues to thrive with 16 goals so far (tied with Julian Quiñones), reaffirming his enduring brilliance with a tally that keeps him central to his team’s attack. His consistency, even as Al Nassr’s title challenge falters, underscores his ability to deliver in high‑pressure moments. 

Alongside Ronaldo, João Félix (Al Nassr) has emerged as both a creative force and a ruthless finisher. The Portuguese duo’s internal rivalry is fascinating: while Ronaldo thrives on instinct and positioning, Félix adds flair and versatility, giving Al Nassr a dual threat unmatched in the league.

The biggest disruptor, however, has been Julián Quiñones (Al Qadsiah). The Mexican forward has stunned observers by matching Ronaldo stride for stride, as highlighted by the SPL’s official coverage. His pace, directness, and clinical finishing have propelled newly promoted Al Qadsiah into the top four. This makes him both a Golden Boot contender and a symbol of the league’s growing competitiveness.

Finally, Roger Martínez (Al Taawoun) has been the heartbeat of his side’s historic campaign. With crucial goals, often late winners, Martínez has kept Taawoun in the conversation, proving that the Golden Boot race is not just about the giants.

As the season enters its decisive phase, this five‑way battle epitomizes the SPL’s transformation into a league of global stars. Whether Ronaldo maintains his edge, Félix overtakes him, or Quiñones, Toney, or Martínez spring a surprise, the Golden Boot race will remain a defining subplot of the title fight.

January Transfer Window Watch

January has been beehive of transfer rumors and activity. The 2025/26 Roshn Saudi League winter transfer window has seen clubs act decisively to bolster their squads before the February 2 deadline. With fixtures coming thick and fast, the timing of these moves could prove crucial.

Al Hilal were among the busiest, adding Pablo Marí from Fiorentina, Sultan Mandash from Al Taawoun, and defensive reinforcements in Murad Hawsawi and Rayan Al Dawsari from Al Khaleej. These signings strengthen their already formidable depth, ensuring Simone Inzaghi has options across defense and midfield. The headline departure was João Cancelo, who left on loan to Barcelona, a move that reduces Hilal’s European star power but opens space for domestic talent.

Al Ahli secured Ricardo Mathias from Internacional, adding South American flair to their midfield. Outgoings included Ayman Fallatah (loan to NEOM SC) and Abdulelah Al Khaibari (to Al Riyadh), signaling a reshaping of their squad balance.

Al Ittihad welcomed back Talal Al Haji and Farah Al Shamrani from loan spells, while Al Qadsiah lost Mohammed Al Thani to Al Shabab. Al Taawoun saw Romain Faivre return to Bournemouth at the end of his loan, a blow to their attacking options.

Al Fateh parted ways with Karl Toko Ekambi, who joined Al Arabi, while Al Okhdood added Tokmac Nguen from Djurgårdens IF, a signing that could inject pace and creativity.

Overall, the January window highlighted a mix of strategic reinforcements and high-profile exits, with Al Hilal’s activity standing out. As the title race heats up, these moves may prove decisive in shaping the league’s final outcome.

A Tough January for Al Taawoun

For much of the first half of the season, Al Taawoun were the surprise package of the Saudi Pro League. They had a blistering start with nine wins and a draw after an opening‑day defeat. This early form propelled them into the top three and sparked talk of a historic title challenge. Yet January has proven a far sterner test, exposing the limitations of a squad that lacks the depth of its rivals.

The relentless pace of fixtures has taken its toll. In their last six matches, Al Taawoun managed just two victories, a sharp contrast to their earlier consistency. The narrow 1-0 defeat to Al Nassr was particularly damaging, not only halting momentum but also underlining the gap in quality when facing the league’s heavyweights. That setback saw them slip to fifth place, four points behind Al Qadsiah and five adrift of Al Ahli and Al Nassr.

Despite the downturn, Al Taawoun still hold a five‑point cushion over sixth‑placed Al Ittihad, a reminder that their early season exploits were no fluke. Colombian striker Roger Martínez remains a talisman, delivering crucial goals that have kept them competitive. However, the challenge now lies in sustaining performance levels without the luxury of rotation options enjoyed by the “Big Four.”

January’s struggles highlight the fine margins of competing at the top. For Al Taawoun, every point matters, and any further dip could undo months of hard work. Yet their resilience and ability to grind out results away from home suggest they are far from finished. If Péricles Chamusca can steady the ship, Al Taawoun may still write a remarkable chapter in SPL history. However, the coming weeks will determine whether they remain contenders or fade into the chasing pack.

Looking Ahead

As January closes, the Saudi Pro League prepares for a decisive second half of the season. Several storylines promise to shape the months ahead, beginning with the return of stars from the Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Sadio Mané (Al Nassr), Édouard Mendy (Al Ahli), Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal), and Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal) will rejoin their clubs after playing pivotal roles in Senegal’s triumph and Morocco’s spirited run. Their reintegration could immediately alter the balance of power, with defensive stability and attacking leadership restored to title‑chasing squads.

The question now is whether Al Nassr can mount a comeback. After opening the season with ten straight wins, they faltered in January, losing ground to unbeaten leaders Al Hilal. With Ronaldo and Félix driving their attack, the return of Mané adds another dimension, but Jorge Jesus must address defensive lapses and discipline issues if his side are to close the gap. The next few fixtures will be critical in determining whether Nassr remain genuine contenders or slip further behind.

Meanwhile, Al Hilal look to consolidate their dominance. Their unbeaten run has been built on depth and tactical flexibility. The return of Koulibaly and Bounou only strengthens their hand. Rivals Al Ahli and Al Qadsiah will also be eager to sustain momentum, ensuring the title race remains a multi‑team battle.

Beyond domestic competition, the AFC Champions League Elite knockout stages loom large. Saudi clubs (Al Ahli, Al Hilal, and Al Ittihad) have invested heavily to compete at continental level, and their performances in the group stages will be closely watched. Success in Asia would not only validate the SPL’s global ambitions but also test squad rotation and endurance during a congested calendar.

In this regard, February and March will set the tone for the season’s climax. With returning stars, a fierce title race, and continental challenges ahead, the Saudi Pro League promises high drama on multiple fronts.

FAQs: Saudi Pro League January 2026

Who won AFCON 2025?

Senegal, who included three Saudi Pro League players (Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly and Edouard Mendy) in their squad. They defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time in the AFCON 2025 final, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal.

Which SPL players featured at AFCON 2025?

Several Saudi Pro League stars played key roles at AFCON 2025. Sadio Mané (Al Nassr), Édouard Mendy (Al Ahli), and Kalidou Koulibaly (Al Hilal) represented Senegal, while Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal) and Jawad El Yamiq (Al Najmah) featured for Morocco. Their performances highlighted the SPL’s growing global competitiveness.

Who led the SPL in January 2026?

Al Hilal. They topped the Saudi Pro League standings at the end of January 2026. They remained unbeaten with 45 points from 17 matches, ahead of Al Nassr and Al Ahli. Their depth and consistency under Simone Inzaghi made them clear favorites in the title race.

How many foreign players are allowed in the Saudi Pro League?

Saudi Pro League regulations permit clubs to register up to 10 foreign players. Of these, 8 can be senior players and 2 must be under-21. On matchdays, a maximum of 8 foreign players can be included in the squad.