RIYADH: Jacob Rinne moved to Al-Fateh from Danish side Aalborg BK last summer for a new challenge and a welcome escape from the harsh Scandinavian climate.
Seven months later the Swedish goalkeeper was facing down Cristiano Ronaldo, aiming to shut out the world’s greatest international goalscorer.
On that February evening, Ronaldo bested Rinne from the penalty spot as Al-Nassr snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw in injury-time at the Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium. This Friday, the pair will meet again in the Saudi Pro League.
“Thank you for reminding me,” Rinne smiles when asked by Arab News about the spot-kick in February. “Before the game we discussed penalties and where Ronaldo would shoot. We agreed that I’d just stay in the middle but we also looked at some patterns in his run that seemed to show which corner he would choose to put it in.
“When I saw he was taking the penalty I was saying to myself, ‘just stay, stay in the middle.’ But when he was running to the ball, I saw something and just had an immediate feeling that he would go for a corner so I dived … and he basically chipped it down the middle.
“Honestly, I was so angry with myself. It would have been great to save that one!”
Ronaldo’s high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr has been followed by the summer arrival of some of the world’s best attacking talent to the Saudi Pro League, with the likes of Karim Benzema, Neymar, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez all among Rinne’s opponents this season.
Rinne could be forgiven for being a little nervous at the prospect of facing such accomplished strikers, but instead he is relishing the opportunity to test himself against the best in the world.
“It started with Cristiano and he gave such a such a boost to the whole league,” Rinne said. “Now there are so many great players coming and most of them are in the offensive part of the pitch.
“I know I’m going to have a lot to do but it’s just fun to be able to be a part of that era right now in Saudi Arabia. It would be nice to save a one-on-one against Benzema, of course, but I’m looking forward to playing against any of those guys who have pretty much won everything individually.”
Rinne insists that whether Al-Fateh come up against Neymar at Al-Hilal or Benzema at Al-Ittihad, they will approach each game the same way.
“We don’t prepare differently. Before every game we analyze the most dangerous players they have offensively and of course this week we’re going to look at Cristiano and Sadio for example, and what they do specifically.
“But in another team, that can be a Saudi guy and we will treat him the same — there is nothing specifically that we do just because they are great players,” he added.
“The main difference is that usually if they get the chance, these big players pretty much take it. They punish you when you make a mistake much more than the other ones.”
Ronaldo netted 14 times in 16 Saudi Pro League matches last season but Rinne feels the Portugal forward has not been given an easy ride by opponents since moving to Saudi Arabia and expects other new arrivals to experience the same treatment.
“It must be pretty hard for Cristiano because when you step up against those players, immediately you sharpen yourself up and you are really on him because you don’t want him to beat you. For some players, this is almost the game of their lives to play against Ronaldo, so if you get that every time, it must be hard.
“I do think just because some of these clubs have some great players, it doesn’t mean they are going to immediately jump ahead. It’s still a tough league.”
Al-Fateh finished sixth in 2022-23 but despite a solid showing, the club replaced Greek boss Georgios Donis with ex-Croatia and West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic. While Rinne enjoyed playing for Donis, he insists the intensity of training has been taken up a notch by Bilic.
“It started in preseason in Austria,” Rinne recalled. “He (Bilic) started off saying that preseason is not fun and the main goal is to improve our conditioning and train harder.
“I was so happy when I heard this because honestly I missed this last season. It has been the biggest change. He’s always there and involved in everything and his assistants are really great guys and great coaches also. I think the whole squad is round him and it has improved.”
Part of that improvement has been thanks to Al-Fateh’s new signings, with Armenia midfielder Lucas Zelarayan and Belgium center-back Jason Denayer joining this summer. Ex-Barcelona forward Christian Tello and Spanish defender Fran Velez make up the other European players in the squad, and Rinne has been happy with the reinforcements.
“We have sharpened up the squad and had some great guys coming in with Jason and Lucas. They are really great players so of course our goal is to play for the Asian Champions League positions this season.
“I really liked Donis, but since Slaven came in you feel like the whole squad is stepping up. We were missing that intensity before. Now it is like someone is always hunting the players — it doesn’t matter if you are someone like Cristian Tello or not, the aim is always to try to improve.”
The improvements Rinne has seen at Al-Fateh over the summer have made him feel more settled at the club, and while he admits that there were some difficult times adjusting to life in the Gulf last season, he believes the strength of the Saudi Pro League shows he made the right choice to move.
“It was difficult at the start,” he said. “There were times when I wondered if I had made the right decision to come to Saudi because it seemed training wasn’t as intense or serious. I actually told my agent after a couple of months that I didn’t know if I could stand this because I still have ambitions to improve myself and achieve something.
“I thought maybe it would kill my chance to go for the top five leagues in Europe in the future but now the league has developed here in Saudi Arabia, there is more publicity and a little bit more hype,” said Rinne.
“Now I am enjoying it here. I was playing in the north of Denmark for five years and was used to heavy, strong wind, blowing from side to side, and the facilities were not at the top level. Here, we have great weather, the football pitches and the facilities are great. I am really focused right now on doing as well as I can in Saudi Arabia.”
Al-Fateh goalkeeper Jacob Rinne ready for challenge of Ronaldo, Neymar and Benzema
https://arab.news/cwz4q
Al-Fateh goalkeeper Jacob Rinne ready for challenge of Ronaldo, Neymar and Benzema
- On Friday, Swedish goalkeeper comes up against a wounded Al-Nassr looking for first SPL win of the season
- “Thank you for reminding me,” Rinne smiles when asked by Arab News about the spot-kick in February
88,000 players compete in Saudi Amateur Football League’s 2023-24 season
- 3,050 men’s teams and 19 women’s teams play in 10,376 matches in 620 competitions across 30 leagues nationwide
- AFL chief Adel Al-Faqih says the association aims to play its part in the development of the sports sector in the Kingdom
JEDDAH: A total of 88,025 men and women played in 620 competitions during the 2023-24 season of the Saudi Amateur Football League.
League officials revealed on Wednesday that 87,729 players from 3,050 men’s teams and 296 players representing 19 women’s teams participated in 10,376 matches across 30 leagues throughout the Kingdom.
Adel Al-Faqih, chairperson of the AFL, said the association aims to play its part in the development of the sports sector in Saudi Arabia, with strong support from the country’s leaders, including “the supervision and follow-up” of Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, minister of sports and president of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
The AFL’s specific goals include increasing the proportion of people in the Kingdom who participate in sport, thereby helping to build a vibrant, athletic community that encourages the adoption of positive, healthy lifestyles, Al-Faqih said.
“The association encourages the participation of various age groups in different sports activities, in line with the initiatives of the Quality of Life Program and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030,” he added.
Established in 2014, the AFL organizes tournaments throughout the country to help grow and develop the sport, in line with the goals of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
More World Cup woe as Saudi Arabia draw a blank against Bahrain
- Earlier, Australia had drawn 1-1 with leaders Japan in Saitama
- Salem Al-Dawsari’s saved penalty proves costly
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia were held to a 0-0 draw by Bahrain in Jeddah on Tuesday in another disappointing performance and result in the third round of qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
A first-half missed penalty from Salem Al-Dawsari — his second in four games in Group C — proved costly and meant that the Green Falcons failed to climb above Australia into second place.
The Socceroos had earlier drawn 1-1 with leaders Japan in Saitama, to move on to five points, one above Saudi Arabia and five behind the Samurai Blue.
The match had given Roberto Mancini’s men the chance to move two points above Australia into second ahead of their meeting in Melbourne next month, but after collecting only one point now from two home games in Jeddah in the space of five days, the heat is on the Italian head coach.
In reality this was another plodding performance, albeit against well-organized, hard-working and physically strong opponents. There were few moments of quality and few chances.
Saudi Arabia started brightly, however, with Firas Al-Buraikan forcing an early save from Ebrahim Lutfalla after some smart attacking interplay, but there was an even bigger chance before long.
There was a lengthy VAR delay in the 13th minute as Marwan Al-Sahafi went down in the area under a challenge from Abdulla Al-Khalasi. After almost three minutes the referee, who had not originally pointed to the spot, went to the pitchside monitor and, almost inevitably, changed his decision. It looked like the right one and it gave Al-Dawsari the opportunity to settle the nerves at the King Abdullah Sports City and banish memories of his miss against Indonesia in the opening game that ended in a 1-1 draw.
The 2022 Asian Player of the Year also had to take his time and it was almost six minutes after the initial foul when he took the kick. It was not the best of penalties and Lutfalla stood his ground and then made a diving save to his left. The feeling of energy leaving the stadium was palpable.
It took the hosts some time to get going again and they could even have been behind at the break.
Bahrain’s best chance in the first half came in the seventh minute of added time as Al-Khalasi almost redeemed himself for giving away the penalty but, from the left corner of the area, his low shot was well-blocked by Ahmed Al-Kassar. The goalkeeper was in action moments later too, flying through the air to push away a ball that had come off the head of Al-Buraikan.
The Green Falcons had some half-chances early in the second half and had a rare opportunity with 11 minutes remaining. Abdullah Radif ran into the area and made space for himself, only to shoot tamely into the arms of the grateful Lutfalla.
Bahrain had to work even harder after 87 minutes when they were reduced to 10 men, the visitors having used all their substitutes before Sayed Hashim Isa went off injured.
Given the 11 minutes of added time, there was still hope for Saudi Arabia, especially after Al-Dawsari went down in the area under a challenge from the goalkeeper. The referee was not interested in the penalty, however, and, this time, neither was VAR.
Musab Al-Juwayr sent an enticing low cross into the six-yard box in the 101st minute but there was no one able to connect to win the game.
That was that, and only one team were celebrating at the final whistle and it was not Saudi Arabia.
To compound his misery, Mancini appeared to exchange words with angry fans as he left the pitch following the end of the match. There is a lot of work to do.
Mancini stresses mental preparedness ahead of crucial Bahrain qualifier
- National team are fully focused, says head coach
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s head coach Roberto Mancini on Monday stressed the importance of being mentally prepared as his team look to bounce back from their defeat against Japan.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference at King Abdullah Sports City, Mancini highlighted the need for psychological readiness ahead of the Green Falcons’ World Cup qualifier against Bahrain in Jeddah on Tuesday.
Mancini, who was joined by goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar, acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match, saying: “I think it’s the same thing as I said before — all games are difficult.
“Tomorrow’s game is crucial and tough. Bahrain looked physically strong against Indonesia and I hope we deliver a positive display, as we did against Japan despite the loss.”
The Italian coach stressed that his team are fully focused and mentally strong.
He added: “We are mentally prepared. We are seeking to compensate for the loss to Japan. Psychological support is very important, and we are grateful to Prince Abdulaziz Al-Faisal, minister of sports, and Yasser Al-Misehal, president of the Saudi Football Federation, for their constant motivation.”
Mancini called on the fans to play their part, adding: “Their presence is very important and a great support for the team.”
Echoing his coach’s sentiments, Al-Kassar spoke of the team’s determination to make up for the disappointment of the Japan defeat.
He said: “All the players were frustrated when fans left during the Japan match, and we were not satisfied with the result.
“Everyone expects a lot from us and we must make the fans happy. We will strive to do so against Bahrain and secure a victory.”
Bahrain’s head coach Dragan Talajic, a familiar figure in Saudi football having won the 2004 AFC Champions League with Al-Ittihad, shared his excitement about returning to the city.
He said: “I am so glad to be back in Jeddah. I have great memories with Al-Ittihad that I will never forget.”
He anticipates a competitive match, and added: “The plan tomorrow is to play great football; I’m sure the Saudis are thinking the same.
“It’s going to be a good game between two great teams, and we’re looking forward to winning.”
Al-Shabab’s Musab Al-Juwair missed a training session, led by Mancini, due to pain in his thigh.
The Green Falcons sit third in Group C in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Saudi footballing legend Khalid Musaad honored with testimonial match
- Special game set to take place in Jeddah
JEDDAH: Saudi footballing legend Khalid Musaad will be honored with a testimonial match on Nov. 12, celebrating 15 years of service with Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad, and the Saudi Arabian national team.
The match will feature Al-Ahly of Egypt and is set to take place in Jeddah.
The Charitable Association for Athletes’ Welfare announced the event on Sunday during a press conference at King Abdullah Sports Stadium.
Nassar Al-Dhaheri, the chairman of the board of directors for the association in the Makkah region, said: “The match is a tribute to one of Saudi Arabia’s greatest football legends, Khalid Musaad, whose retirement in 2004 has long awaited this recognition.”
He acknowledged challenges had delayed the testimonial but expressed pride in organizing the event.
Al-Dhaheri also highlighted the importance of recognizing athletes who had represented their country on the international stage.
He thanked both Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia and Al-Ahly of Egypt for their cooperation in making the event possible. Proceeds from the match will go toward supporting charitable programs for athletes, reflecting the association’s commitment to its goals.
The press conference included a documentary showcasing Musaad’s illustrious career and achievements, both locally and internationally.
In addition to the match between Al-Ahli and Al-Ahly, there is an exhibition game featuring Saudi legends and Musaad’s friends scheduled for the same day.
Musaad expressed gratitude for the efforts that had gone into making the event happen.
He said: “The support I’ve received over the years has been incredible, and I’m deeply thankful to the fans. I’m thrilled that my retirement match will finally happen and I hope everyone enjoys the event on Nov. 12.”
His former teammate Khalid Al-Khawaji said: “I’m delighted that Musaad is receiving this well-deserved honor. He is a phenomenal person and a true professional.”
Musaad featured at Al-Ahli before moving to Al-Ittihad and finally retiring in 2004.
He earned 115 caps for the Saudi national team, participating in the World Cup in 1994 and 1998. His honors include helping to win the Asian Youth Cup in 1985 and 1986; the 1986 Gulf Cup; and playing in the Confederations Cup in 1992, 1995, and 1997.
Al-Ahli’s Ali Majrashi called up for Saudi’s clash with Bahrain on Tuesday
- Green Falcons resumed training on Friday evening at their camp
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s head coach Roberto Mancini has called up Al-Ahli’s defender Ali Majrashi for his side’s 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Bahrain on Tuesday.
After losing 2-0 to Japan in Jeddah on Thursday — their first defeat in the third round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup — the Green Falcons resumed training on Friday evening at their camp in preparation for the Bahrain clash.
The two Gulf national teams face each other at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
It is believed that Mancini called up Majrashi as right-back Saud Abdulhamid will be unavailable due to suspension after receiving two yellow cards.
Mancini divided the players into two groups during training on Friday. The first group consisted of the players who had started the match against Japan, and they were assigned recovery exercises in the gym.
The second group included the rest of the players, who trained at the King Abdullah Sports City with warm-up exercises and passing practice. The players then went on to various tactical exercises and stretches.
The national team will continue their preparation program on Saturday with a closed training session at King Abdullah Sports City at 6 p.m.
