An administrative crisis precedes the decisive confrontation
At a time when Damac FC needs the support of all its fans to overcome one of its most difficult periods in the Saudi Professional League, an administrative crisis and inflammatory statements have surfaced, sparking widespread controversy in the sports community. Former Damac FC president, Saleh Abu Nakhah, announced his categorical refusal to attend his former team's match against Al-Fayha, scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, at Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Sports City Stadium in Al-Mahalah, as part of the 33rd and penultimate round of the league championship.
Abu Nakhah opens fire: “I am not honored to be present.”
Abu Nakha's statements revealed a deep rift between the current administration and the former president who led the club in previous periods. In an exclusive interview with Okaz newspaper, Abu Nakha expressed his strong displeasure, saying, "I am not honored to attend the Damac-Al-Fayha match after the complaint they filed against me, and we now have several pending cases." He didn't stop there, but also sent a veiled message to the current administration, adding, "They must respect and appreciate those who served and worked for the club first and foremost." This statement reflects the extent of the administrative tension casting a shadow over the team at a very sensitive time.
The struggle for survival and the specter of relegation to the Yellow League
The match between Damac and Al-Fayha is of paramount importance, a truly decisive one for the "Knights of the South." Damac enters this encounter with only 26 points, placing them in a precarious position and under direct threat of relegation to the First Division (Yellow League). A victory and securing the three points is the only option for the team to escape the specter of relegation and ensure their continued presence among the elite of Saudi football, especially given the fierce competition in the Roshan League this season, which is considered one of the strongest seasons thanks to the recruitment of new players and the high level of play.
Public campaign to save "Knight of the South"
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the Damac FC administration launched a widespread campaign through its official social media account (formerly Twitter) to mobilize fans and urge them to support the team. The club sent motivational messages to the residents of the region and club supporters, emphasizing that "Al-Mahala is waiting for its people to support, encourage, and stand by the team." The official account stressed that "presence makes all the difference," addressing the fans with the message: "Al-Mahala is waiting for your voices... we have faith in you." This initiative stems from a belief in the crucial role of the fans as a key player capable of instilling a fighting spirit in the players.
A decisive confrontation before the clash with Al-Nasr
Adding to Damac's predicament is their congested schedule and the crucial matches that await them. Tomorrow's game against Al-Fayha is their last chance to salvage the season before facing Al-Nassr in the final and most difficult match of the 34th round. This match will be held next Thursday at Al-Awwal Park Stadium in Riyadh. The danger of this encounter lies in the fact that it could also be decisive for Al-Nassr, who are aiming for a victory to clinch the Saudi Professional League title for the current season. This convergence of ambitions between a team fighting to avoid relegation and another battling for the championship makes Damac's task extremely difficult if they fail to secure a victory against Al-Fayha.
In conclusion, Damac fans are living in a state of anticipation, hoping that the players will be able to overcome the administrative disputes and focus only on the green rectangle, to ensure the team’s continuation in the Professional League, and avoid returning to the Yellow League.
