Al-Nassr FC have been crowned Saudi Pro League champions after a commanding 4-1 victory over Damac FC on the final day of the season, ending a six-year wait for the league title and marking a major moment for African star Sadio Mane ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The triumph secured Al-Nassr’s first Saudi league crown since the 2018-19 campaign and saw them finish above fierce rivals Al-Hilal SFC after a closely contested title race that went down to the final round of fixtures.
Playing in front of their supporters at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh, Al-Nassr produced a dominant display to confirm their return to the top of Saudi football after several years of frustration and near misses.
For Mane, the success represents another major achievement in a decorated career that has already included trophies in England, Germany and Africa.
The Senegal forward also scored during the decisive victory over Damac, playing a key role as Al-Nassr finally converted heavy investment and growing ambition into silverware.
The title carries additional significance for the former Liverpool FC star, who celebrated the triumph while wearing the jersey of the Senegal national team.
Mane is expected to lead Senegal at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico after missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar through injury.
The forward now appears fully focused on helping the Lions of Teranga challenge on the global stage.
Al-Nassr’s journey to the title has been years in the making.
Since lifting the Saudi Pro League trophy in 2018-19, the Riyadh club repeatedly fell short despite assembling strong squads and investing heavily in both local and international talent.
During that period, Al-Hilal dominated Saudi football domestically, often leaving Al-Nassr chasing the title in frustrating fashion.
The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in January 2023 transformed the club’s global profile and raised expectations even further. However, despite the increased attention and star power, the league title initially remained out of reach.
This season, though, Al-Nassr finally found the consistency required to reclaim top spot.
Their final-day performance against Damac reflected the attacking quality and confidence that defined much of their campaign.
Mane’s contribution added to a convincing team display as the Riyadh giants secured the result needed to stay ahead of Al-Hilal.
The championship is also another reminder of the growing influence of African players in Saudi football.
Mane remains one of the continent’s biggest football figures and his performances throughout the campaign have reinforced his importance both for club and country.
With Senegal preparing for a fourth World Cup appearance, supporters will hope the 33-year-old can carry his winning form into the international tournament next year.
For Al-Nassr, meanwhile, the title signals the end of a long wait and potentially the beginning of a new era of domestic dominance after years spent trying to close the gap on their rivals.
