Saudi league postpones three matches after Houthi attacks

Saudi Arabian football league (SPL) has rescheduled three matches, including one featuring Al Nassr with star player Cristiano Ronaldo, amid the intensifying conflict with Houthi rebels. The SPL cited logistical considerations and mandatory rest periods between games in a statement published on Tuesday.

The postponed fixtures include the clash between league leaders Al Hilal and Al Riyadh, as well as the match between Al Ittihad and Al Shabab, both now set to take place on December 19. The match between Al Ahli and Al Nassr, scheduled to occur on March 6, 2027, has also been moved.

However, the SPL assured fans that the remaining fixtures from matchweek nine will proceed as originally planned with no alterations. On Monday, Al Nassr's AFC Champions League game against Uzbek side Neftchi Fergana in Riyadh was delayed by an hour following the Houthis' alleged interception of a missile heading towards the Saudi capital.

The ongoing hostilities between a Saudi-led coalition and Yemen's Houthi rebels have escalated in recent days, resulting in missile strikes on critical infrastructure. The most recent assault targeted Riyadh's international airport, causing significant disruption and claiming the lives of 13 individuals. This attack marked the most severe incident since 2015.