When Is Al Nassr Next Game: What Most People Get Wrong About the Schedule

When Is Al Nassr Next Game: What Most People Get Wrong About the Schedule

If you’re scrambling to figure out when is Al Nassr next game, you aren't alone. The Saudi Pro League schedule can feel like a moving target sometimes. Between local league play, the AFC Champions League Two, and various domestic cups, keeping track of Cristiano Ronaldo and company requires a bit of a roadmap. Honestly, after that tough 3-1 loss to Al Hilal on January 12, fans are more anxious than ever to see how the team bounces back.

The wait is almost over. Al Nassr is scheduled to take the pitch today, Saturday, January 17, 2026.

They are facing off against Al Shabab in a Matchweek 16 clash that carries massive implications for the top of the table. If you're planning your day around it, the kickoff is set for 8:30 PM local time (AST) at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. For those of you following from the States, that’s roughly 12:30 PM ET or 9:30 AM PT.

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When Is Al Nassr Next Game? Breaking Down the January Calendar

The match against Al Shabab is just the beginning of a relentless January stretch. Al Nassr is currently sitting in a bit of a pressure cooker. They’ve dropped points recently—losses to Al Ahli and Al Qadsiah earlier this month really stung. Now, every single fixture feels like a must-win if they want to keep Al Hilal within touching distance.

After today’s game, the schedule doesn't let up. Here is what the immediate future looks like for the Knights of Najd:

  • January 21, 2026: Al Nassr travels to Abha to take on Damac FC. Kickoff is at 8:30 PM AST at the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium.
  • January 26, 2026: They return home to Al-Awwal Park to host Al Taawoun. This one is another 8:30 PM AST start.
  • January 30, 2026: A road trip to Ar Rass follows, where they’ll face Al Kholood at 8:30 PM AST.

It’s a grueling pace. Four games in thirteen days. You've got to wonder if Stefano Pioli will start rotating the squad or if he'll ride his veterans like Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Marcelo Brozović until the wheels fall off.

The Champions League Factor

Looking slightly further ahead, February brings the return of continental football. Al Nassr has a date with FK Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16. The first leg is away on February 11, with the return leg in Riyadh on February 18.

Why does this matter now? Because it dictates how much energy they can afford to burn in these late January league games. If they don't secure enough points in the domestic league this month, they might be forced to prioritize the ACL Two, which would be a bitter pill for a fan base dreaming of a Saudi Pro League title.

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What to Expect Against Al Shabab

Al Shabab isn't the powerhouse they once were—they're currently hovering in the lower half of the table—but they always play Al Nassr tough. It's a Riyadh derby, after all. There’s pride on the line.

One thing most people get wrong is assuming this is a guaranteed three points for Al Nassr. It’s not. Al Nassr’s defense has looked shaky lately. Losing 3-1 to Al Hilal exposed some serious gaps in the backline. Mohamed Simakan and Iñigo Martínez will need to be much more organized than they were last Monday.

Keep an eye on João Félix. He’s been a bright spot even in the losses, often acting as the creative engine when the midfield gets stagnant. If Al Shabab decides to sit deep and defend with a low block, it’ll be up to Félix and Kingsley Coman to find the seams.

How to Watch and Follow Along

If you're wondering how to actually see the game, the options depend heavily on where you are. In the Middle East, the SSC (Saudi Sports Company) network is the primary broadcaster. For international fans:

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  1. United States: Fox Sports (specifically FS2 or Fox Soccer Plus) and the Fubo streaming service often carry the big matches.
  2. United Kingdom: DAZN has been the go-to for Saudi Pro League action this season.
  3. Global: The "Shahid" streaming platform is usually the most reliable way to catch every single minute of Al Nassr's campaign, regardless of your region.

Actionable Insights for Fans

If you're following the team this month, don't just look at the final scores. Watch the first 15 minutes of the Al Shabab game. Al Nassr has developed a nasty habit of starting slow in 2026. If they don't assert dominance early today, expect a long, frustrating night in Riyadh.

Also, monitor the injury reports for Sultan Al Ghannam. He’s been the most consistent player for the club in terms of appearances, but at his age and work rate, fatigue is a real factor. If he’s rested today, Al Nassr loses a significant portion of their attacking width.

Next Steps for You:

  • Check your local listings for FS2 or DAZN at least 30 minutes before the 8:30 PM AST kickoff to catch the lineups.
  • If you're betting or playing fantasy, look at Sadio Mané’s assist stats; he’s been feeding Ronaldo more consistently than anyone else over the last three fixtures.
  • Clear your schedule for the Damac game on Wednesday; mid-week away games in Abha are notorious "trap games" for the big Riyadh clubs.