Horvat analyzes the Riyadh derby: Al-Nassr's chance and Ronaldo's perceived injustice

In exclusive statements to Okaz newspaper, Croatian Alen Horvat, the former technical director of Al-Nasr club, highlighted the Riyadh derby between the capital’s two giants, Al-Nasr and Al-Hilal, stressing that this match represents a crucial turning point in Al-Nasr’s journey this season.

The Riyadh derby... more than just three points

Horvat emphasized that today's (Monday's) match against Al-Hilal is not just another game in the Saudi Professional League schedule, but a golden opportunity for Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates to get back on track and regain their lost confidence after three consecutive defeats. The Croatian coach explained that winning the derby is the strongest incentive for any team to return to winning ways, given the immense public and media attention that accompanies this football derby.

The Riyadh derby holds special significance not only locally, but also regionally and internationally, especially given the tremendous growth of Saudi sports and its attraction of some of the world's top stars. The match serves as a prestigious showcase for Arab and Asian football, drawing the attention of millions worldwide who follow the tactical and technical battle between Riyadh's two giants.

Reasons for Al-Nasr's technical decline

In his technical analysis of Al-Nassr's current situation, Horvath noted that the team appeared tense and fatigued in the last three matches, which negatively impacted their results. The former coach attributed this decline partly to the absence of key players, most notably Senegalese star Sadio Mane. Horvath said, "Mane isn't just a winger; he's one of the best players in the world in his position over the last decade, and his absence leaves a clear tactical void. However, I'm confident the coaching staff can find alternative solutions against Al-Hilal.".

The league is still up for grabs

Horvat rejected the pessimistic tone that views the derby as the last chance to compete for the title, emphasizing that the Roshan League season is still long and arduous. He cited the beginning of the season when Al-Nasr held a comfortable lead, highlighting the unpredictability of football and asserting that the battle will continue until the very last stages of the competition, given the strength of the competition and the close levels among the top teams.

Ronaldo: An extraordinary ambassador and a nation-building project

Regarding the harsh criticism leveled at the team's captain, Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, Horvath fiercely defended the "Madeira Rocket," describing the attacks against him as unfair. He explained, "Ronaldo is an exceptional player and a great motivator for his teammates, and his role shouldn't be reduced to just 90 minutes.".

Horvath added a crucial point regarding Ronaldo's strategic influence, noting that his presence in Saudi stadiums extends beyond the pitch; he is a global ambassador and a key promoter of the ambitious Saudi football project. Thanks to his presence, other international players have been encouraged to join the league, thus raising the competition's market and technical value globally.

Nostalgia for Saudi stadiums

Horvat concluded by expressing his longing to return to coaching in Saudi Arabia, reminiscing about the good times and positive results he achieved previously. He revealed that there had been previous negotiations that did not materialize, expressing his hope to return soon and be part of the tremendous development that Saudi football is currently witnessing.