Al-Nassr and Al-Shabab face off in a critical Saudi Pro League match at Al-Awwal Park on Saturday. This fixture carries significant implications for both teams as they navigate contrasting pressures in the league.
Current Form and Performance
Al-Nassr has had a remarkable season, starting with ten consecutive wins, the first team to achieve this in the league’s history. However, their momentum has slowed recently. They have not won in their last four competitive matches, including a recent 3-1 defeat against rivals Al-Hilal. This has left them seven points behind the league leaders, who are currently unbeaten with 38 points from 14 games.
Key statistics for Al-Nassr include:
- Current league position: 2nd
- Match record: 10 wins, 1 draw, 3 losses
- Goals scored: 30, Goals conceded: 20
- Disciplinary issues: 2 red cards in last 3 matches
- League-high: 6 penalties conceded
In stark contrast, Al-Shabab struggles continue this season. Currently sitting just above the relegation zone, they have secured only 11 points from 14 matches. Their season highlights include a win against NEOM Sports Club, which ended a four-match losing streak.
Key statistics for Al-Shabab include:
- Current league position: 14th
- Match record: 2 wins, 5 draws, 7 losses
- Goals scored: 12, Goals conceded: 22
- Disciplinary issues: 4 red cards in last 2 matches
- Joint-most penalties conceded: 6
Team News and Lineups
Al-Nassr will face multiple absences for this crucial matchup. Goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi received a red card in the last match and will miss this game, along with defender Nawaf Boushal and midfielder Marcelo Brozovic, both serving suspensions. Moreover, Sadio Mane is unavailable due to national team duties.
Al-Shabab also contends with several key missing players. Mohammed Harbush is sidelined due to a cruciate ligament injury, and multiple players are suspended due to recent red cards. On the bright side, striker Abderrazak Hamdallah is expected to return, providing a much-needed boost to their offense.
Projected Lineups
| Al-Nassr | Al Buaninain; Boushal, Al-Hassan, Martinez, Yahya; Al-Khaibari, Ghareeb, Angelo; Coman, Felix, Ronaldo |
|---|---|
| Al-Shabab | Grohe; Al-Thani, Brownhill, Hoedt, Balobaid; Adli, Sierro, Hernandez; Carrasco, Al-Hammami, Hamdallah |
Match Prediction
As Al-Nassr enters this fixture with recent struggles, Al-Shabab sees a prime opportunity to challenge their rivals. Despite issues, Al-Nassr’s attacking capability, especially from players like Ronaldo and Felix, poses a serious threat. While the match may present challenges for both teams, Al-Nassr is favored to edge this contest with a potential score of 4-2.
