In an exciting Saudi Pro League clash, Al-Ittihad will face Al-Ettifaq at the King Abdullah Sports City on Friday. This match, part of matchday 15, sees Al-Ittihad currently in sixth place with 27 points from 14 matches. Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq sits just below in seventh position, having earned 22 points from the same number of games.
Match Preview
Al-Ittihad began the current season with ambitions to defend their title after winning the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League. However, they have struggled to maintain form and find themselves eleven points behind the league leaders, Al-Hilal. Despite a rocky start, the team has found stability and remains unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions, achieving six victories and one draw.
Playing at home, Al-Ittihad has been particularly strong, winning their last five games and managing three consecutive clean sheets while netting four goals. This formidable home record has bolstered their confidence as they look to climb the league table.
Al-Ettifaq’s Form
On the other hand, Al-Ettifaq has also shown resilience, remaining unbeaten in their last three league matches on the road. With two wins and one draw, they will aim to capitalize on this momentum against a challenging opponent. Though their recent victories were against teams struggling to avoid relegation, Al-Ettifaq seeks to narrow the gap between themselves and the top three teams in the league.
In April, Al-Ettifaq suffered a 3-2 defeat during their last visit to King Abdullah Sports City, which adds extra motivation to avoid a similar outcome this time.
Team News
Al-Ittihad is expected to field a similar starting lineup from their last match, with Predrag Rajkovic in goal. The defensive line will comprise Hamed Al Shanqiti, Danilo Pereira, Ahmed Sharahili, and Hassan Kadesh. Unfortunately, Saad Al-Mousa and Houssem Aouar are unavailable due to injuries. Additionally, Fabinho is suspended, allowing Awad Al-Nashri the opportunity to play.
Al-Ettifaq’s squad sees the absence of Ahmed Hassan due to an unspecified injury. However, key players Georginio Wijnaldum and Moussa Dembele will be available, with Wijnaldum having already scored nine goals this season.
Projected Lineups
- Al-Ittihad: Rajkovic; Al Shanqiti, Pereira, Sharahili, Kadesh; Kante, Al-Nashri; Diaby, Bergwijn, Roger; Benzema
- Al-Ettifaq: Rodak; Calvo, Hindi, Hendry, Khateeb; Medran, Ali, Duda, Nkota; Wijnaldum, Dembele
Match Prediction
Al-Ittihad is poised to extend their unbeaten streak to eight matches as they look to improve their position in the standings. With their strong home advantage and attacking prowess, they are favored to win. The expected final score is a narrow 2-1 victory for Al-Ittihad against Al-Ettifaq.
