Well, that was a Matchweek 1 to remember. The Roshn Saudi League (RSL) kicked off the 2025-26 season in spectacular fashion, featuring an impressive 32 goals across nine matches. It wasn’t only about the goals; the opening weekend showcased a wealth of talent, excitement, and storylines that have fans buzzing for what’s to come in the season ahead. Here, we delve into the key talking points that emerged from this thrilling first round.
### Karim Benzema: The Early Bird
Karim Benzema wasted no time in marking his territory in the RSL, scoring a goal just four minutes into his season debut. By the 60-minute mark, he had completed a hat-trick in Al Ittihad’s emphatic 5-2 victory over Al Okhdood. The reigning champions clearly showed they’re not resting on their laurels, and Benzema’s performance is a strong statement that they are determined to keep their title in Jeddah. His early form sets a high bar for the season and adds an exciting narrative to the quest for the golden boot.
### Striker Power in RSL
Benzema wasn’t the only one making headlines; the RSL’s striking talent was on full display. Joao Felix also made a spectacular debut, matching Benzema’s hat-trick as Al Nassr crushed Al Taawoun 5-0. As expected, Cristiano Ronaldo found the back of the net, continuing his legacy as a consistent scorer. Meanwhile, new signings like Joshua King and Mateo Retegui made their mark as well, combining for five goals in their respective matches. Their debut performances raise questions about who will challenge Ronaldo for this season’s golden boot, promising an engaging race ahead.
### A Debut to Remember: Enzo Millot and Others
The excitement didn’t stop with the established stars; new faces brought fresh energy to the matches. Enzo Millot impressed viewers with his performance for Al Ahli, further showcasing the quality of recent signings in the league. Other newcomers like Saimon Bouabre shone for NEOM SC and John Buckley scored for Al Kholood, despite their eventual loss. The summer transfers seem to be hitting the ground running, adding extra layers of anticipation to the league.
### Mohau Nkota: The Star Boy
While many debuts were noteworthy, Mohau Nkota from Al Ettifaq truly stood out. His energy and enthusiasm were palpable throughout the match. Not only did he score a goal, but his contribution to the buildup play was notable, demonstrating skill and creativity. Nkota’s joyous demeanor while playing has already made him a fan favorite, and many are eager to see how he continues to progress in this league.
### New Clubs: Mixed Results
For the three newly promoted clubs, the start of the season was a mixed bag. Al Hazem was the only team to avoid defeat, securing a draw against Damac while narrowly missing out on victory due to a missed penalty by Omar Al Somah. Al Najmah faced a challenging debut against Al Qadsiah but fought hard until the dying minutes. NEOM SC, while unable to secure points, displayed determination and a strong effort, showing they are ready to compete in the RSL despite their loss to Al Ahli. This sense of resilience could bode well as the season progresses.
### Goalkeepers Making Waves
Among the match highlights was Al Ahli’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who was crucial in denying NEOM SC any goals and ultimately played a key role in securing victory for his team. His performance has been called “Man of the Match,” highlighting the importance of strong goalkeeping in the league. Strong defensive performances will be just as integral as scoring talent in determining the outcomes of matches throughout the season.
### A Season Full of Promise
Reflecting on Matchweek 1, it’s clear that the RSL is brimming with potential and excitement. With established stars like Benzema and Ronaldo starting strong, alongside emerging talents like Nkota and Felix, the league is poised for an exhilarating season. The influx of skilled players is already elevating the competitive standard, making every match a must-watch.
The narrative surrounding each club, whether it’s the reigning champions, the exciting newcomers, or the established contenders, adds depth to what is shaping up to be a memorable season. Fans can expect not only thrilling matches but also a showcase of emerging talent, tactical battles, and intense rivalries. As the league progresses, the question of who will claim the title and dominate the scoring charts remains tantalizingly open.
### Looking Forward
As we transition from the exhilarating highs of Matchweek 1, the anticipation for Matchweek 2 is palpable. Will Benzema maintain his form? Can Joao Felix continue to rise to the occasion? And how will the newly promoted teams respond to the challenges ahead? The RSL stands at a fascinating juncture, and this season promises to deliver a spectacle for football fans not only in Saudi Arabia but around the globe.
In conclusion, the opening weekend of the Roshn Saudi League has set a compelling stage for the season, filled with excitement, drama, and plenty of talking points. As fans eagerly await the next round of matches, one thing is clear: this season has all the ingredients for a memorable campaign in Saudi football.
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