Al-Dawsari and Al-Buraikan lead the race for Asia’s top player award

Salem Al-Dawsari and Firas Al-Buraikan are in a tight race for Asia’s top player award, with Iranian Ali-Reza Beiranvand also among the candidates. The Asian Football Confederation has announced the finalists for its annual awards. The ceremony is due to take place on November 19, leaving the winners to be decided. The presence of two Saudi players adds particular interest to the contest: Al-Buraikan is making his first appearance among the candidates, while Al-Dawsari is chasing another continental honour.

The Al-Hilal player has already won the award in 2022 and 2025. A third success would give him another historic milestone. His 2025-2026 season with Al-Hilal was outstanding, with the club finishing the Saudi league in second place without a defeat.

Al-Buraikan, an Al-Ahli forward, also made his mark during the 2025-2026 season. Beiranvand, meanwhile, had a notable year on the international and continental stages. He played more matches than any other goalkeeper for his country at the 2026 World Cup and helped Tractor reach the round of 16 of the 2025-2026 AFC Champions League. The award race therefore pits two Saudi contenders against an Iranian candidate ahead of the November 19 ceremony.