Firas Al-Braikan is facing a difficult decision after the date of the Asian awards ceremony was set just 24 hours before Al Ahli’s Roshn Saudi League classic against Al Nassr on 20 November 2026.
The timing has prompted considerable debate, with some critics questioning why the league fixture was not postponed. A change to the schedule would have allowed Al Ahli forward Al-Braikan to attend the continental event without affecting his preparations for one of the club’s most important matches.
However, the issue goes beyond whether the player can attend an awards ceremony. Badr Al-Obaid, an expert on Asian football, has highlighted a condition that could have a direct impact on Al-Braikan’s prospects in the race for the prize.
Speaking on the Dorina Ghair programme, Al-Obaid said that a player’s presence at the awards ceremony is among the key criteria considered by the Asian Football Confederation when selecting the winner.
He added that Al-Braikan’s absence could cost him the award, despite the Al Ahli striker being included among the candidates.
The situation leaves Al-Braikan with two competing priorities. Travelling to the ceremony could affect his preparations for the meeting with Al Nassr, while missing the event could weaken his chances of being named the best player in Asia.
The narrow gap between the two commitments makes the problem more difficult. With only one day separating the ceremony from the classic, the player would have to manage the arrangements for travelling and returning, as well as ensuring he has enough time to recover before the match.
The fixture is listed in the Roshn Saudi League for 20 November 2026, the same date shown for Al Ahli against Al Faisaly and Al Nassr against Al Qadsiah in the published schedule details.
Al-Braikan must therefore balance his individual ambitions with his responsibilities to Al Ahli. His final decision is expected to depend on the arrangements for the ceremony and the club’s position, as debate continues over a fixture date that has placed one of the team’s leading players in an awkward position.
