Saudi Super Cup draw announced: Al-Ahli face Al-Qadsiah, Al-Nassr meet Al-Khaleej

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation on Wednesday announced the draw for the Saudi Super Cup, with Al-Ahli set to face Al-Qadsiah in the semi-finals, while Al-Nassr will meet Al-Khaleej in the other tie. The draw ceremony was held in the Kuwaiti capital, attended by several high-ranking officials. The Saudi Ambassador to Kuwait, Prince Sultan bin Saad bin Khalid, representative of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, was present at the event. On the Kuwaiti side, Kuwait Football Association President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef Al-Sabah and Dr Tariq Al-Jalahma, representing the Kuwaiti Ministry of Sports, also attended the ceremony. Two former Kuwaiti internationals, Ali Marwi and Bashar Abdullah, were also present. Ali Marwi previously played for Saudi club Al-Ahli, while Bashar Abdullah had a spell at Al-Hilal. Their presence provided an interesting connection between Kuwaiti and Saudi football. This year's tournament brings together four of Saudi football's top clubs. Under the format being used, the teams will play in a knockout system, with two semi-finals and one final to determine the champion. However, the organisers have not yet announced details on the qualification criteria for each club or the specific venues for the matches. The Saudi Super Cup will take place from 19 to 23 December in Kuwait. The hosting of a major Saudi football tournament abroad is a notable development, reflecting the trend of Gulf regional football expanding its influence beyond national borders. Al-Nassr is regarded as the highest-profile club among the four participants, while Al-Khaleej is considered the underdog on paper. The tie between Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah is seen as more balanced than the clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Khaleej. All four clubs are targeting the title, promising exciting matches in Kuwait later this year. Details on the match schedule, kickoff times and broadcast information will be announced by the organisers in due course.