Yasser Al-Qahtani

Lore & Background

Al-Qahtani began his club career at Al-Qadisiyah before moving to Al-Hilal in 2005 for a reported £2.5 million. He went on trial at Manchester City in December 2007 after winning the Asian Footballer of the Year award. In 2011, he joined Al Ain on a season-long loan, helping them win their first league title since 2004. He returned to Al-Hilal after the loan. Coached by Sami Al-Jaber and Laurențiu Reghecampf, he reached the 2014 AFC Champions League final with Al-Hilal, finishing as runner-up.

In Their Own Story

The Riyadh heat hung heavy over Mrsool Park during that decisive evening match against Al Hilal. The scoreline was deadlocked, and the midfield battle had become a chaotic scrum of yellow and white jerseys. Yasser received the ball near the halfway line, turning calmly to shield it from two pressing defenders. With a glance upfield, he spotted the subtle run of his striker into the box. In one fluid motion, he lofted a curled pass over the defense that seemed impossible to intercept. The net rippled seconds later, and the roar of the crowd confirmed once again why the yellow jersey was synonymous with magic.

Reader's Guide

Al-Qahtani played for Al-Hilal and Al Ain during his club career. He was a forward and captain of the Saudi Arabia national team. His international highlights include playing in the 2006 FIFA World Cup (scoring against Tunisia) and being top scorer at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, where Saudi Arabia reached the final. He was injured during 2010 World Cup qualification and Saudi Arabia missed the tournament.

Did You Know?

• Al-Qahtani scored a goal against Tunisia at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
• He was the top scorer at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup.
• He won the Asian Footballer of the Year award in 2007.
• His loan spell at Al Ain in 2011–12 helped the club win its first league title since 2004.