RIYADH, 1 January 2006 — The Saudi Football Federation (SFF) announced that Jan. 12 is the last day of registration for professional football players. The deadline includes Saudi and foreign players. The SFF will not register any players after that date except for the teams that play abroad in Asian, Arabian or Gulf competitions. New numbers released by SFF indicate the federation registered around 233 Saudi players for more than SR24 million and 178 foreign players for more than SR14 million.
Al-Ittihad Sign Romanian Midfielder
JEDDAH, 1 January 2006 — Ittihad made an agreement with the Romanian international midfielder Daniel Banko to play with Ittihad this season. Banko is a well-known player in Europe, having played with Beshiktash in the Turkey league and the UEFA Cup last year. He is also one of the main players of the Romanian international team. Iordanesco, Ittihad coach, choose Banko to replace Chico for the remainder of this season. In addition to the local competitions, the player will participate in the AFC Champions League in 2006.
Jizani to Play for Al-Ohod
MADINAH, 1 January 2006 — Al-Ohod signed yesterday with former Ahli striker, Waleed Jizani, in a SR70,000 deal to play the remainder of the season. Jizani was happy with the deal, saying that he had received more than one offer from different clubs. He said that he chose Ohod because the club’s plans are great. He wants to help them to qualify for the first division league next year.
Hilal First in Volleyball
JEDDAH, 1 January 2006 — Al-Hilal defeated Al-Nahda 3-0 in the 13th round of the volleyball league. Hilal reached point 30, which give them the lead on the scoreboard. In other matches, Al-Ahli defeated Al-Safa in Qatif 3-1, Al-Khaleej beat Al-Nasr 3-0 and Al-Ittihad beat Al-Yarmouk 3-0. The league will stop for two weeks due to Haj vacation.
