MW28 Talking Points: Al Nassr in control, Al Najmah respite, nifty Nandez

MW28 Talking Points: Al Nassr in control, Al Najmah respite, nifty Nandez AFC Champions League Elite commitments meant Matchweek 28 was an abbreviated one , with Roshn Saudi League representatives Al Ahli, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad all out of action. But, while there was a restricted schedule, there was no shortage of drama, as the title picture became a little clearer and the relegation battle took a few crazy twists and turns. We reflect on the major storylines in this week’s Talking Points.

Al Nassr in control While those around them falter and drop points, Al Nassr remain in control, reestablishing their five-point lead at the top of the table with a comfortable 2-0 win at Al Okhdood . While anything can happen in the remaining six fixtures, especially with blockbuster clashes against Al Ahli, Al Hilal and Al Qadsiah to come, there’s no doubting that it’s Jorge Jesus’ side in the box seat for a first RSL title since 2019. As their championship rivals have all given up points in recent weeks, Al Nassr keep extending their winning streak in the league - currently at a club-record 14 matches - showing the type of form that made them look invincible at the start of the season .

This time it was Portuguese pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix who grabbed the headlines. -------- Joy at last for Al Najmah It's been a sapping season for the RSL newcomers , with a solitary win and 21 losses from 27 games coming into the visit of potential powerhouse, NEOM Sports Club . But, in six glorious minutes either side of half-time, Al Najmah’s struggles this season were put to one side as the bottom club’s long-suffering fans finally had something to celebrate.

Indeed, with some misfortune in the form of a red card to Mohammed Al Aql, it made their second-half showing even more impressive. While it feels a little too late in relation to their survival hopes - with six rounds remaining, Al Najmah are 12 points from safety - it was undoubtedly a cool moment for the club. -------- Al Qadsiah's midfield marvel With the plethora of superstars in the RSL, it’s easy for some players to go a little unnoticed, and Al Qadsiah’s Uruguayan midfielder Nahitan Nandez can sometimes fall into that category.