Al-Riyadh faces a challenging match against Al-Ittihad on Friday evening at Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Stadium. This encounter is critical for both teams as the Saudi Pro League season approaches its climax. Al-Riyadh is fighting to avoid relegation, while Al-Ittihad aims to solidify its position in pursuit of continental qualification.
Match Preview: Al-Riyadh vs Al-Ittihad
Al-Riyadh has struggled throughout the current Saudi Pro League season. With only 16 points from 25 matches, they sit in 16th place on the table. Their record boasts three wins, seven draws, and 15 defeats. Throughout the season, inconsistent performances have marked their journey, particularly evident in their recent results, which include just one victory in their last five matches.
- Recent Match Record: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses
- Total Goals Scored: 22
- Total Goals Conceded: 48
The defensive issues have plagued the team, leading to the third-highest goals conceded in the league. In their last match, Al-Riyadh faced a heavy defeat, losing 3-0 to Damac. They now look to new coach Mauricio Dulac to reverse their fortunes and spark a necessary turnaround.
Al-Ittihad’s Competitive Edge
In contrast, Al-Ittihad approaches this match with a secure spot in sixth place, having gathered 42 points from 25 games. Their performance showcases 12 wins, six draws, and seven losses with a total of 40 goals scored and 31 conceded. Although their title hopes have diminished, they are in a strong position to contend for continental spots.
- Recent Match Record: 2 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss
- Total Goals Scored: 40
- Total Goals Conceded: 31
Al-Ittihad’s recent form has been steady despite a setback against Al-Ahli, where they lost 3-1. Historically, the team has dominated their previous encounters with Al-Riyadh, winning the last 10 meetings, including a 2-1 victory in the first leg of this season.
Team News and Lineups
Al-Riyadh is not suffering from any significant injury issues, granting coach Dulac a full-strength squad to select from. Expected starters include:
- Goalkeeper: Milan Borjan
- Defenders: Mohammed Al-Khaibari, Yoann Barbet, Abdulelah Al-Khaibari, Osama Al-Bawardi
- Midfielders: Victor Lekhal, Ahmed Al-Siyahi
- Forwards: Leandro Antunes, Teddy Okou, Enes Sali
Al-Ittihad may have to cope without Awad Al-Nashri due to a muscle injury, while Saad Al-Mousa is sidelined with an ankle injury. The expected lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Predrag Rajkovic
- Defenders: Danilo Pereira, Ahmed Sharahili
- Midfielders: Fabinho, Mahamadou Doumbia
- Forwards: Youssef En-Nesyri, Houssem Aouar
Match Prediction
In conclusion, while Al-Riyadh is eager to accumulate points to escape relegation, their defensive vulnerabilities will prove challenging against Al-Ittihad’s quality. Experts predict a 2-0 victory for Al-Ittihad, as their experience in high-stakes matches is likely to overwhelm the hosts at home.
