Buck Moon: What is it and how to watch it across the Gulf | World News

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The Buck Moon rises low over the Gulf horizon, drawing skywatchers across the region for a rare and golden lunar spectacle/Representative Image

The Gulf’s football scene is heating up, driven by investment, continental ambitions, and growing local passion. These ten clubs lead the charge:

1. Al‑Hilal (Saudi Arabia)

Elite status:

• Record 19 Saudi Pro League titles and 11 King’s Cups.
• Most successful club in Asian history with 4 AFC Champions League trophies (1991, 2000, 2019, 2021)
• Recently knocked Barcelona off its pedestal by beating Manchester City at the Club World Cup, showcasing the Saudi Pro League’s rise.

Impact: Backed by Saudi’s Public Investment Fund, they’re blending legacy with world-class stars like João Cancelo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Yassine Bounou, and Rúben Neves. This strategy has transformed them into a global brand and continental benchmark.

2. Al‑Ahli (Saudi Arabia)

Revival story:

• After being relegated in 2022, they swung back with the 2025 AFC Champions League Elite title, overcoming Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale.

Key factor:

• Strong investment post-2023, landing stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Ivan Toney; their journey “completes a crazy journey”, says coach Matthias Jaissle.

3. Al‑Ittihad (Saudi Arabia)

Champion pedigree:

• Two-time AFC Champions League winners (2004, 2005)
• Nine Saudi Pro League titles; current title contenders

Momentum: Garden of strong local support and renewed ambition—set to be a major rival in continental competitions.

4. Al‑Nassr (Saudi Arabia)

Global draw:

• Nine league titles, Arab Club Champions Cup winners
• Injected star power with Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mané, and clinched their place in the 2025 ACL Elite quarter-finals

Regional role: They’re a high-profile brand attracting global sponsors, but performance expectations remain high.

5. Al‑Ain (UAE)

Domestic power:

• 14 UAE Pro League titles and two ACL trophies (2003, 2024)
• Famous for eliminating Ronaldo’s Al‑Nassr in the 2024 ACL quarter-finals — ending Al‑Hilal’s 34-match unbeaten streak

Legacy: Well-structured academy, disciplined management, and consistent performance have cemented their influence.

6. Shabab Al‑Ahli (UAE)

Dubai’s powerhouse:

• Nine Pro League titles, multiple domestic cups, and an IFFHS ranking among Asia’s top clubs

Influence: Strong grassroots development, youth systems, and a fan-centric model maintain their elite status.

7. Al‑Wasl (UAE)

Cultural icon:

• Seven Pro League titles and a revered legacy since the 1960s

Local impact: “Club of the Century” in Dubai, nurtures homegrown talent and inspires local support and identity.

8. Al‑Nasr SC (UAE)

Foundational strength:

• One of the UAE’s oldest clubs, founded in 1945, with multiple league successes

Role: Maintains firm grassroots presence, develops local talent, and contributes heavily to Dubai’s football narrative.

I witness two Al Hilal players clashing in an intense midfield duel. One controls the ball, the other lunges in for a tackle under the bright stadium lights.

9. Al‑Sadd (Qatar)

Continental star:

• Qatar Stars League leader with 64 domestic trophies
• Twice Asian champions (1989, 2011)

Significance: Boosted by post‑World Cup infrastructure and deepened regional appeal, Al‑Sadd remains Qatar’s dominant force.

10. Al‑Rayyan (Qatar)

Traditional heavyweights:

• Eight league titles, six Emir Cup wins, and home of Ahmad bin Ali Stadium

Presence: Deep local roots, fan-based momentum, and consistent top-tier performance define their legacy.

Why These Clubs Matter in the Gulf Today

1. Continental dominance: Saudi clubs lead with multiple ACL medals and Club World Cup breakthroughs
2. Financial firepower: Backed by PIF and big names, Gulf leagues now attract stars away from Europe
3. Cultural engines: UAE clubs to Qatar’s post‑World Cup momentum, football is shaping national identity
4. Tourism & youth impact: Clubs are key to sports tourism and building youth engagement across the Gulf

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