Nasty blow for Al-Nassr ahead of clash with Al-Ettifaq: what happened?

Al Nassr have suffered a defensive blow ahead of their match against Al Ettifaq, with Frenchman Mohamed Simakan confirmed to miss the game scheduled for the third round of the Saudi Pro League.

Australian Ange Postecoglou has ruled out the French defender from his plans for the upcoming match, due to his continued feeling of a slight muscle strain in his hamstring, leading the coaching staff to decide against risking his participation.

Al Nassr loses one of their important players in the defensive line at a time when the team is looking to continue their strong start in the Saudi Pro League and achieve a new victory against Al Ettifaq.

According to the newspaper 'Al-Riyadiyah', Mohamed Simakan will not appear in Al-Nassr's squad, while the player continues his rehabilitation program until he fully regains his physical readiness.

The absence of Mohamed Simakan is not the only concern for Al-Nassr, as they will also miss Mohammed Marran and Saad Al-Nasser due to injury, alongside Abdurrahman Ghareeb, depending on his fitness and medical condition.

Nawaf Al-Aqidi and Raghed Al-Najjar will miss out due to their ongoing treatment programs at the club's medical clinic, limiting options for Postecoglou.

Al Nassr will face Al Ettifaq on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 9 PM Mecca time and Cairo time, at the Ego Stadium, amid anticipation for the selections of the Australian coach.

Al Nassr aims to overcome their injury list and maintain their positive results, while Al Ettifaq hopes to exploit their opponent's circumstances and achieve a strong result in the third round of the Saudi Pro League.