Reading ability in English is an essential skill that students must master in language learning. However, in practice, many students face various difficulties in understanding English texts. This study aims to analyse the types of difficulties experienced by students of class 8U of MTs Ma'arif Munggūng Ponorogo in reading English texts as well as the factors that influence them. This study used descriptive qualitative method with participants as many as 10 out of 25 students. In addition, class 8U was chosen due to the availability and readiness of students in participating in research activities and this class is also a representation of the school's academic achievement expectations in rural areas. Data collection techniques were observation, interview, and documentation. The results show that the main types of difficulties faced by students include reading fluency, decoding difficulties, vocabulary comprehension, determining the main idea of reading, cultural difficulties. In addition, the factors that influence students' difficulties in reading English texts include psychological factors, cognitive factors, linguistic factors, social factors. By understanding these obstacles, it is hoped that teachers can implement more effective learning strategies, such as the use of interesting learning media, the application of appropriate reading techniques, and the continuous improvement of reading practice. This aims to improve students' reading ability in understanding English texts more optimally, especially in rural areas.