Al-Ahli struggles in pre-season friendlies amid injury concerns

Al-Ahli's preparations for the 2026-2027 football season have hit a rocky patch during their overseas training camp in Portugal. On Friday, the team suffered a 3-1 defeat to Portuguese side Vitoria Guimaraes.

Despite manager Torres Nova fielding a strong lineup from the start, the team found themselves trailing by three goals at the break. Brazilian forward Matheus Goncalves provided a consolation goal in the second half, but it was not enough to spark a comeback.

This loss marks the second defeat for Al-Ahli during their pre-season camp, following a 4-1 loss to German club Holstein Kiel earlier in Austria. Their only victory in the current series remains an 8-0 thrashing of Austrian side Saalfelden, alongside a 2-2 draw with Rio Ave.

Beyond the scorelines, injury woes are mounting. Saleh Abu Al-Shamat became the latest casualty after being stretchered off following a heavy collision during the match against Vitoria Guimaraes. This follows the earlier injury to left-back Zakaria Hawsawi.

Supporters are increasingly anxious, fearing a scenario similar to last season's struggles faced by their rivals, Al-Ittihad, who saw their campaign derailed after a poor pre-season. The pressure is on for the squad to find form, particularly after the departure of several experienced players at the end of the previous term.

Al-Ahli has two final tests remaining in Portugal before their camp concludes on 28 July: matches against Portimonense and English side Fulham.