Global attention on Riyadh Derby as Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal clash in potential title decider

LONDON: Last week, the world watched as Paris Saint-Germain edged Bayern Munich in a dramatic UEFA Champions League semifinal. Then at the weekend, global attention turned to Arsenal taking a huge step toward the English Premier League title after beating West Ham United in a tense game.

On Tuesday evening, there is another epic clash: the Riyadh Derby, a potential title decider, a pivotal moment in Cristiano Ronaldo’s storied career and, most importantly, the biggest game in Saudi Pro League history in terms of global attention.

“Your support has pushed us every single week,” Ronaldo wrote on social media on Monday. “In the stadium, at home and everywhere around the world. That energy is with us on the pitch. Let’s make it count. For us. For you. For Nassr. See you tomorrow.”

Many will. The SPL is watched in over 180 countries and last year’s viewership was 230 million. Tuesday’s clash is set to be the most watched game of all.

There is always something on the line when Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal meet, even if it is just pride, but rarely have the stakes been so high in the 68-year history of the derby. The situation is clear and that is not the only reason why hundreds of thousands of fans tried to get tickets.

As things stand, Al-Nassr have played 32 games out of 34, with 82 points and in first place. The Blues are a game and five points behind. It means that a Nassr win will deliver a first title since 2019.

It would also mean a first major trophy for Ronaldo since he joined the Yellows in December 2022. He has personal milestones, such as two SPL golden boots, and reached 100 league goals earlier this month but the championship is within reach like never before.

But if Hilal win and then take three points off