Al Raed vs. Al Ittihad: A Rivalry in Saudi Football
The rivalry between Al Raed and Al Ittihad, two prominent Saudi Arabian football clubs, isn’t as fiercely contested as some of the kingdom’s other derbies, like the Riyadh or Jeddah derbies. However, it holds its own significance, representing a clash between contrasting histories, fan bases, and regional pride. While Al Ittihad enjoys a far richer history and national recognition, Al Raed strives to prove their mettle against the giants.
Al Ittihad, based in Jeddah, is one of the most successful clubs in Saudi Arabia, boasting a cabinet full of trophies including multiple Saudi Professional League titles, King Cups, and Asian Champions League titles. Their fan base is enormous and passionate, extending far beyond the city of Jeddah. They are known for their attacking style of play and the star power they attract.
Al Raed, hailing from Buraidah in the Al-Qassim region, represents a different profile. While a respected club in Saudi football, they haven’t achieved the same level of success as Al Ittihad. They are typically considered a mid-table team, often fighting for a respectable league position rather than vying for championships. Their support base is largely concentrated within the Al-Qassim region, giving their matches a strong local flavor.
The matches between these two clubs, while not always filled with animosity, are always competitive. Al Raed views games against Al Ittihad as an opportunity to test themselves against one of the best teams in the country. A victory against Al Ittihad is a significant achievement for Al Raed and their fans, providing bragging rights and a boost to their season. For Al Ittihad, these matches are crucial for maintaining their dominance and securing vital points in their pursuit of league titles.
Historically, Al Ittihad has dominated the head-to-head record against Al Raed. The difference in resources and player quality often translates into victories for the Jeddah-based club. However, Al Raed has occasionally managed to upset Al Ittihad, proving that anything can happen on the football pitch. These upsets are especially memorable for Al Raed fans and are celebrated with great enthusiasm.
The rivalry also features the contrast between the cosmopolitan city of Jeddah and the more traditional region of Al-Qassim. This regional element adds another layer to the matches, with fans from both sides taking pride in representing their respective regions. While the rivalry might not be as heated as some others, the games between Al Raed and Al Ittihad provide a compelling narrative within the broader landscape of Saudi football, highlighting the diverse nature of the league and the importance of local pride.