RIYADH: The Saudi Women’s First Division League will on Thursday kick off for its second edition in five regions of the Kingdom. Riyadh, Jeddah, Qatif, Taif, and Madinah will act as host cities for the first round of the competition, with 26 teams taking part in the five regional groups. Group one comprises of Al-Bairaq, Al-Himma, Golden Eagles, Al-Shoula, Al-Orouba, and Al-Watani. Ittihad Eagles, Esperance, Ras Tanura, Al-Fateh, and Al-Nahda make up the second group, and the third grouping brings together Al-Wehda, Ohod, AlUla, Al-Taqadum, and Mine of Talent. Al-Ain, Al-Hijaz, Phoenix, Al-Amal, and Abha are in group four, with the fifth consisting of Sahm, Falcons, Jeddah Star, Al-Nawras, and Jeddah Club. The regional group stages will be played on a home and away basis, with 12 teams progressing to the second stage. The qualifying clubs will include the top three from the six-team group one, the top two from groups two to five, and the best third-placed team from groups two to five. The second stage will see two groups of six teams compete, with the top two from each progressing to the semi-finals.