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FootballThe Interesting Nicknames of Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Ittihad and 16 Other Clubs in the Saudi League
- The Saudi Pro League boasts 18 teams, each with a rich heritage and dedicated fanbase
- Just like football clubs dotted across the globe, teams in Saudi have similar monikers
- Here is a look at the nicknames of sides in the 2023–2024 Saudi top-flight
Established in 1976, the Saudi Professional League (SPL) operates from August to May, employing a double round-robin format where clubs play each other twice, earning three points for a win and one for a draw.
Despite being primarily a local competition, the SPL holds global influence, boasting A-list football icons such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and Riyad Mahrez.
Aside from being a new haven for the sport's big-name players, the Saudi top flight also serves as a launchpad for Saudi talents eyeing European football stardom.
Saudi League's global appeal
With substantial investments and high-profile transfers, the league has attracted renowned foreign players, propelling Saudi football onto the world stage, per Sporting News.
The SPL's increasing popularity has drawn attention due to its ambition and ample resources, captivating fans worldwide.
This expansion has piqued the interest of supporters seeking teams to rally behind, allured by the league's appeal.
How the SPL works?
Regarding the SPL's structure, the top four teams secure prized spots in the prestigious AFC Champions League, a platform showcasing the best in Asian football.
Conversely, the league's bottom two clubs face the looming threat of relegation to the Saudi First Division League, per Sportrankers.
Nicknames of Saudi clubs
Much like clubs worldwide, those in the Gulf region boast unique nicknames that resonate with both their fans and rival supporters.
Rooted in historical narratives, these monikers often reflect aspects such as the club's location, cultural values, and ambitions.
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CricketSports Brief explores the fascinating nicknames held by Saudi football's 18 premier division clubs.
No. | Clubs | Nicknames |
1 | Al Hilal | Blue Waves, The Boss |
2 | Al Nassr | Knights of Najd, Al-Alami |
3 | Al Ahli | The Royals, Al-Raqi (The Classy Ones) |
4 | Al Taawoun | The Wolves, Sukri Al-Qasim |
5 | Damac | The Knight of the South |
6 | Al Ittihad | The Tigers, Nadi Al-Sha'ab |
7 | Al Fateh | Sons of the Palm, Al Namothji |
8 | Al Ettifaq | The Commandos, Faris Ad-Dahna |
9 | Al Wehda | Knights of Mecca |
10 | Al Khaleej | Al-Danah |
11 | Al Fayha | The Orange, Tawahin Sudair |
12 | Al Okhdood | Ditch |
13 | Al Shabab | Al Leith (White Lion) |
14 | Al Riyadh | N/A |
15 | Al Taee | Knight of the North |
16 | Al Raed | Raed Al Tahadi |
17 | Abha | The Leaders of the South |
18 | Al Hazem | Hazem Al-Samood |
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FootballRonaldo: The face of Saudi Arabian Sports
Sports Brief also reported that Cristiano Ronaldo is increasingly emerging as a prominent figure in the Saudi Arabian sports scene, playing a pivotal role in promoting the country’s Esports World Cup.
The Al Nassr talisman participated in the launch event alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, engaging in a panel discussion with Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman.
Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond eSports, as he has also been featured in promotions for various sports events, including the highly publicised exhibition fight between English boxer Tyson Fury and former UFC Champion Francis Ngannou since his arrival in Saudi Arabia.