Al-Ahli: the reason for Mahrez's absence revealed

Africa 27 February 2026 at 05:54

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

26.02.26 FT Pro League Saudi Arabia

Al Riyadh

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Al Ahli

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Riyad Mahrez was absent from Al-Ahli’s away fixture against Al-Riyadh, held yesterday as part of the 24th round of the Saudi Pro League. The coaching staff opted to rest the Algerian international, aiming to preserve his fitness for the crucial run-in at the end of the season.

Read also: Mahrez: Al-Ahli shuts the door!

Despite missing their midfield maestro, the Jeddah side got the job done, clinching a narrow 1-0 victory. The match’s lone goal came courtesy of an own goal by goalkeeper Milan Borjan, giving Al-Ahli the crucial edge.

With this valuable win, the Saudi club provisionally moves to the top of the league table, pending the outcome of Al-Nassr’s match as they, too, remain firmly in the title race.

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Pro League Saudi Arabia