In a dramatic twist, the Saudi Sports Arbitration Center has upheld Al-Nassr’s protest against Al-Orobah, ruling that their opponent fielded an ineligible goalkeeper, Rafaa Al-Ruwaili, in their February league match (which Al-Orobah won 2-1). The decision overturns prior dismissals by the Disciplinary and Appeals Committees and awards Al-Nassr all three points.
Government Employment Violation: Al-Nassr submitted evidence proving Al-Ruwaili was not fully professional, as he held a government job, a breach of player eligibility rules.
– Reopened Case: The Arbitration Center held a new hearing Friday, ultimately siding with Al-Nassr based on regulatory violations.
– Asia Champions League Hope: Al-Nassr (now on 70 points) can secure second place, and a 2025 AFC Champions League spot, if they beat Al-Fateh and rivals Al-Hilal lose/draw against Al-Qadsiah in Monday’s simultaneous final matches.
– Relegation Confirmed: Al-Orobah are officially relegated alongside Al-Raed.
The ruling has stolen attention from Al-Ittihad’s title celebration and the relegation battle, reframing the league’s climax as a head-to-head fight between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal for Asian qualification.
This precedent-setting decision underscores strict enforcement of player eligibility, while injecting last-minute drama into the Saudi Pro League’s finale.
Saudi Sports Arbitration Overturns Decision: Al-Nassr Awarded 3 Points in Dramatic Eligibility Ruling
