Ronaldo vs Benzema: King’s Cup Showdown Set to Define Saudi Season
It’s one of those nights in Saudi football that feels bigger than just a single game — Al Nassr versus Al Ittihad in the Round of 16 of the King’s Cup of Champions. The matchup doesn’t just bring two of the league’s top teams face to face, it also pits two global icons — Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema — against each other in what could shape both clubs’ seasons moving forward.
For Al Nassr, this has been a near-perfect start to the 2025–26 campaign. Jorge Jesus’ men are flying high, topping both the Saudi Pro League and their continental competition, the AFC Champions League Two. After a disappointing loss in the Saudi Super Cup earlier in the year, they’ve bounced back impressively — winning every single game since. Ten wins out of ten, thirty-four goals scored, and just three conceded. That’s dominance in every sense.
But the King’s Cup is a different beast — a single-elimination contest where one bad night can undo weeks of brilliance. Al Nassr enter this clash fully aware of that, especially facing a side like Al Ittihad, the defending champions of both the Saudi League and last season’s King’s Cup. The Riyadh giants have already beaten their Jeddah rivals once this season, a 2–0 win that not only boosted their league position but also led to Al Ittihad sacking coach Laurent Blanc.
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Since then, Al Ittihad have struggled to find their rhythm. After a promising start, they’ve gone winless in their last three league games and slipped down to seventh. New manager Sergio Conceição has been brought in to steady the ship, and this match could be his first big chance to turn things around. A victory over Al Nassr wouldn’t just keep them in the competition — it could completely change the mood and momentum of their season.
The confirmed lineups add even more intrigue. Jorge Jesus has named his strongest side, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack alongside Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, and Sadio Mané. Behind them, the midfield and defense have been carefully balanced to maintain control and intensity throughout the match.
On the other hand, Conceição is relying heavily on his experienced stars — Benzema up front, supported by Moussa Diaby, N’Golo Kanté, and Fabinho in midfield. With Predrag Rajkovic in goal and Danilo Pereira marshalling the defense, Al Ittihad look ready to fight.
Still, the challenge is monumental. Al Nassr have been a scoring machine, creating nearly twice as many chances as their rivals this season while maintaining the league’s stingiest defense. For Al Ittihad, every opportunity will have to count. Benzema’s return to form could be crucial, but his side can’t afford the defensive lapses that cost them against Al Hilal last week.
In the end, this isn’t just another King’s Cup tie — it’s a clash of pride, legacy, and momentum. For Ronaldo, it’s a chance to extend Al Nassr’s flawless run. For Benzema and Al Ittihad, it’s about redemption and revival. One of them will walk away dreaming of silverware. The other might be left wondering where their season goes next.
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