Saudi Pro League farce continues as 447 fans turn up for match in 38,000 stadium
The Saudi Pro League suffered another humiliation over the weekend with just 447 fans showing up to witness an Odion Ighalo masterclass.
Al-Wehda hosted Al-Khaleej at the 38,000-capacity King Abdulaziz Stadium on Saturday, a game they ended up winning 3-1. A hat-trick from former Manchester United striker Ighalo was enough to secure victory with Fabio Martins netting the only goal of the game for the visitors.
It leaves Al-Wehda ninth in the Saudi Pro League with six wins from their opening 14 games. Despite Ighalo’s heroics, not many fans were present to witness them with only 447 supporters showing up for the game - leaving the club’s huge stadium practically empty.
It is not the first time that the league has been left embarrassed by shockingly low attendances. Steven Gerrard ’s Al-Ettifaq took to the pitch in front of just 696 fans last month for their game against Al-Riyadh at the 10,000 capacity Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Stadium.
Despite the shockingly low attendances within the Saudi Pro League, there is still plenty of optimism across the Gulf nation that the sport in the country will continue to grow. Cristiano Ronaldo - who represents Al-Nassr - has already predicted the league will become one of the biggest in the world.
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Speaking earlier this year, he said: "I have been pleasantly surprised. Foreign players have different qualities. Five, six or seven years from now it will be the fourth or fifth most competitive league in the world if they continue with this same plan. I’m playing, I’m having minutes."
Odion Ighalo scored a hat-trick in front of just 447 fans (Getty Images)Will the Saudi Pro League be a success or a failure? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Elsewhere, ex-Chelsea chief and the Saudi Pro League’s current director of football, Michael Emenalo, has explained the league’s approach to potentially challenging already-established leagues in Europe.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “What we are trying to do is contribute to the development of football globally, we are not here to prove anything except offer quality entertainment to the youth and population of Saudi Arabia.
“And hopefully, in doing so, attract looks and interest from around the world. If we succeed in doing that, it hopefully enhances the sport globally and the business of football worldwide.
“That is all we are trying to do and it shouldn't worry anybody. There is no reason for concern. We are looking forward to collaborating with other major influences in the industry, to work together with them and to continue to grow the game.”
The Saudi Pro League is back in action this week as Al-Hilal attempt to strengthen their grip on top spot. They are four points clear of Al-Nassr after 14 games and are yet to fall to defeat this term.
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