The international break showcases the global reach of the Roshn Saudi League, with players from the competition representing nations across multiple continents in crucial World Cup qualifiers and UEFA Nations League action.
Asian World Cup Qualification Drama
Otabek Shukurov – Al Fayha Uzbekistan stands on the brink of historic World Cup qualification, needing just one point from upcoming matches against UAE or Qatar. The Al Fayha midfielder could help his nation achieve their first-ever World Cup appearance, currently sitting second in Group A behind already-qualified Iran.
Ibrahim Bayesh/Youssef Amyn – Al Riyadh/Al Wehda Iraq seeks to end a 40-year World Cup drought, their last appearance dating to Mexico 1986. The Al Riyadh and Al Wehda players face crucial fixtures against Korea Republic and Jordan, with the latter potentially serving as a winner-takes-all encounter for qualification.
European Competition Excellence
Cristiano Ronaldo/Ruben Neves – Al Nassr/Al Hilal Portugal advanced to the UEFA Nations League final following Ronaldo’s decisive goal in a 2-1 victory over Germany. The 40-year-old superstar delivered the winning strike, while Al Hilal’s Ruben Neves contributed significantly in midfield, helping Portugal reach their second final in four tournament editions.
Ivan Toney – Al Ahli The striker returns to England duty for the first time since joining Al Ahli last August. Following his role in Al Ahli’s continental success, Toney aims to contribute to England’s World Cup qualification campaign against Andorra, with a subsequent friendly against Senegal potentially featuring fellow Saudi League stars Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Edouard Mendy, and Habib Diallo.
Koen Casteels – Al Qadsiah Belgium’s goalkeeper earned the Saudi League’s Golden Glove award with 14 clean sheets, anchoring the league’s best defensive record. He now targets Belgium’s World Cup qualifying opener against North Macedonia and Wales as they pursue a fourth consecutive World Cup appearance and redemption following their early Qatar exit.
Florin Nita – Damac Romania hasn’t qualified for the World Cup since 1998, making their upcoming matches against Austria and Cyprus particularly significant. Despite Damac’s disappointing 14th-place finish, Nita recorded seven clean sheets and will represent Romania alongside former teammate Nicolae Stanciu, who recently transferred to Italy’s Genoa.
South American Qualifying Battles
Jhon Duran – Al Nassr Colombia occupies sixth place in South American qualifying, holding the final automatic qualification spot. Duran’s form fluctuated during his Al Nassr stint, starting explosively with four goals in two games before experiencing a drought, then finishing strongly with three goals in his final three matches.
Nahitan Nandez – Al Qadsiah Uruguay can significantly advance their qualification prospects against Paraguay and Venezuela. Currently third with 21 points, they maintain only a one-point cushion over sixth-placed Colombia. Nandez contributed five assists during Al Qadsiah’s impressive fourth-place finish and King’s Cup runner-up campaign.
CONCACAF Qualification Hopes
Orlando Mosquera – Al Fayha The Panamanian goalkeeper recorded eight clean sheets while helping Al Fayha avoid relegation. After winning their opening two CONCACAF qualification matches, Panama faces decisive games against Belize and Nicaragua. Success would advance them toward joining USA, Canada, and Mexico as CONCACAF’s representatives at the 2026 “home” World Cup.
The international break demonstrates the Saudi League’s expanding global influence, with players competing at the highest levels of international football across multiple confederations.
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