Goals decide contests, and those who consistently provide them inevitably become the focal point of their squads. In the Roshn Saudi League, that spotlight burns even brighter, with every campaign bringing a fierce chase for the scoring title.
Goals decide contests, and those who consistently provide them inevitably become the focal point of their squads. In the Roshn Saudi League, that spotlight burns even brighter, with every campaign bringing a fierce chase for the scoring title.
As the 2025-26 season restarts on Thursday, a new chapter begins in the battle for the top scorer’s honour. Several forwards have already made early claims — including the two leading the line for Al Nassr — and the competition is poised to intensify.
Joao Felix has made a blistering start to his first year in the league, amassing 11 strikes as he quickly settled in at Al Nassr. His on-field understanding with Cristiano Ronaldo has exceeded expectations, their combination responsible for the bulk of the club’s tally so far.
The forward announced himself immediately by delivering a treble on opening day against Al Taawoun, and he repeated the feat in October versus Al Fateh. In that second match, he produced a slaloming effort through the defence that highlighted his confidence and control.
With form like this, Felix has positioned himself as the early frontrunner, a status earned by both consistency and eye-catching match-winning moments.
Cristiano Ronaldo, sitting on 10 goals, remains firmly in the hunt and continues to defy time. Turning 41 soon, the Al Nassr captain retains the hunger and sharpness that secured him the previous two golden boots, with another 30-goal haul looking plausible.
His contribution is more than numerical; the Portuguese icon has delivered unforgettable moments. His spectacular overhead finish against Al Khaleej showcased his athleticism and enduring brilliance, a reminder of why he is still widely hailed as the sport’s greatest.
Together, Ronaldo and Felix have not only made Al Nassr the most threatening attack in the division, but they have also set the tone for an enthralling scoring race.
Joshua King has rediscovered his cutting edge since arriving at Al Khaleej, registering nine goals and powering the team to sixth place. The Norwegian’s most productive period since his Bournemouth days has revitalised both his own career and the club’s league ambitions.
A standout display came with a hat trick against Al Riyadh in October, confirming his status as one of the surprises of the season. His resurgence places him among the realistic outside challengers to the title.
Marcos Leonardo has seamlessly taken on scoring duties at Al Hilal, hitting six goals while standing in for the injured Darwin Nunez. His return to the starting XI in September yielded four consecutive matches with a finish, sustaining momentum built during the recent Club World Cup.
Julian Quinones, also on six, continues to perform efficiently at Al Qadsiah, even while sharing the spotlight with Mateo Retegui. His hat trick versus NEOM SC in October underlined both his quality and his importance.
Roger Martinez has equalled his total from last season with six in the opening nine fixtures for Al Taawoun, boosting their push from third position. His hat trick against Al Fateh and two assists demonstrate both productivity and influence.
A cluster of forwards with five goals are not far behind.
Ramiro Enrique’s arrival at Al Kholood has been immediate, striking on his home debut and scoring four more over the next five outings, including a memorable goal in the first Ar Rass derby.
Mateo Retegui, a marquee summer signing, announced himself with a brace on Matchday 1 and added another double against Al Kholood. His free kick in a narrow win over Al Khaleej stands among the campaign’s finest individual moments.
Mamadou Sylla has offered Al Riyadh a rare bright note, with three of his headers showcasing his aerial dominance from set plays.
Ivan Toney completes the group. The England international has found his rhythm for Al Ahli, netting the decisive goal in the league opener and a brace in a rousing comeback victory over Al Hilal. With 25 goals in 2025, no player has scored more in the calendar year, suggesting momentum is on his side.
From seasoned icons to revitalised veterans and breakout performers, the leaderboard is already stacked with compelling storylines. Ronaldo’s crown is under threat — yet history warns against dismissing him — and with so many candidates rising, the race promises to be one of the most gripping in recent memory.
The season restarts shortly. So does the chase.
