On Friday evening, Al-Hilal SFC will host Al-Najma at Kingdom Arena for Matchday 25 of the Saudi Pro League. Al-Hilal aims to solidify their position in the title race, while Al-Najma fights to escape the bottom of the table.
Match Preview
Al-Hilal sits third in the Saudi Pro League standings with 58 points from 24 matches. The team has achieved 17 wins and seven draws, remaining unbeaten this season. They have scored 62 goals and conceded only 23, indicating their strength on both ends of the pitch.
Home Form and Recent Performance
At Kingdom Arena, Al-Hilal boasts a formidable home record of nine wins and three draws from 12 league matches. Their recent performances have included three wins and two draws from the last five outings across competitions. Their last league match was a thrilling 5-3 victory against Al-Shabab, showcasing their attacking abilities.
Al-Najma’s Struggles
Al-Najma is in 18th place with only eight points from 24 matches. The team has suffered one win, five draws, and 18 defeats, scoring just 22 goals while conceding 54. This highlights significant defensive vulnerabilities.
Away Record
Al-Najma’s away form is concerning, with zero victories, two draws, and 10 defeats. Their recent efforts include four losses in the last five matches, culminating in a 3-1 defeat to Al-Akhdoud.
Team News
Al-Hilal faces several injury concerns. Saimon Bouabre is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Karim Benzema is also expected to miss the match due to injury. Yusuf Akcicek, Mohammed Al-Yami, and Hassan Tambakti are dealing with injury concerns as well.
Expected Lineups
Al-Hilal’s possible starting XI includes:
- Bounou; Hernandez, Koulibaly, Alawjami, Al-Harbi;
- Neves, Kanno, Milinkovic-Savic;
- Mandash, Leonardo, Malcom.
Al-Najma’s possible starting XI includes:
- Braga; Al-Subaie, Samir, Al-Haleel, Al-Hawsawi;
- Tijanic, Guga, Emad;
- Boutobba, Lazaro, Cardoso.
Prediction
Given the disparities in quality, form, and confidence, a comfortable home victory for Al-Hilal appears likely. Their depth in attack and unbeaten record at home should prove too strong for Al-Najma, who continues to struggle defensively.
