Al-Hilal vs Al Ettifaq: A Crucial Clash in the Saudi Pro League
The upcoming match between Al-Hilal and Al Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League promises to be an exciting encounter, as both teams are coming into this fixture with contrasting forms. Al-Hilal, still riding high at the top of the table, will be looking to bounce back from a rare slip-up, while Al Ettifaq is desperate to find their winning formula after a series of disappointing results.
Al-Hilal's recent form has been nothing short of impressive. Despite dropping points for the first time this season in their 1-1 draw against Al-Nassr in the Riyadh Derby, they remain unbeaten in their last 45 league matches, dating back to May 2023. This solid run has kept them at the top of the table with 25 points from 9 matches. The team's attacking prowess has been led by Aleksandar Mitrovic, who scored a brilliant hat-trick in their midweek AFC Champions League victory against Esteghlal. Mitrovic's 17 goals in all competitions this season highlight his importance to the side, and with a perfect home record of 20 straight wins in the league, Al-Hilal will be favorites to get back to winning ways when they host Al Ettifaq.
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On the other hand, Al Ettifaq has been struggling after a promising start to the season. They won their first three matches but have since gone on a six-match winless streak, dropping to 12th place in the league standings. Their most recent defeat, a 2-0 loss to Al Qadsiah, added to their growing frustration. With only 11 points from 9 matches, Steven Gerrard's team needs to improve quickly, or they risk falling further behind in the race for a top-half finish. Despite their struggles, one silver lining for Al Ettifaq is their unbeaten away record, having earned 8 of their 11 points on the road this season.
In terms of squad news, Al-Hilal has been rocked by injury concerns, particularly with Neymar, who is rumored to be facing a potential exit from the club after suffering another injury setback. However, the return of key players like Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who scored in their last league match, and Mohamed Kanno, will provide stability to their midfield. On the other hand, Al Ettifaq will be without Demarai Gray, who has been sidelined since the international break, and the team’s recent tactical shifts have failed to deliver the expected results. The decision to field both Moussa Dembele and Karl Toko Ekambi in their last match against Al Qadsiah proved ineffective, and Gerrard may opt for a change in his lineup.
Al-Hilal, with their deep squad and strong form, will undoubtedly be confident heading into this clash. They have been dominant in this fixture, winning 11 of their last 12 encounters with Al Ettifaq, and are expected to continue that trend. Al Ettifaq will need a miraculous turnaround to challenge the league leaders on their own turf. Given Al-Hilal’s exceptional home form and the talent in their ranks, it's hard to see past a comfortable win for Jorge Jesus's side.
Prediction: Al-Hilal 3-1 Al Ettifaq.
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