Fixture:: Al Ahli vs Al Ittihad (Saudi Pro League)
Date & Time:: Saturday 5th April, 2025 | UK – 7:00pm / US ET – 2:00pm / US PT – 11:00am
Venue:: King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah
Al Ahli Status:: Coming off a 2-1 loss to Al Khaleej, currently outside the top four.
Al Ittihad Status:: League leaders, recently secured a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Al Shabab in the King Cup semi-finals, but recent league form described as inconsistent.
Why this matters:: It's a crucial derby affecting the top of the table. Al Ahli needs points to climb back into contention, while Al Ittihad aims to solidify their lead despite recent inconsistencies.
This Jeddah derby pits a potentially frustrated Al Ahli side against the current table-toppers, Al Ittihad. Al Ahli, managed by Matthias Jaissle, stumbled before the international break, dropping points and falling out of the top four. Their upcoming opponents, Al Ittihad, sit at the summit but haven't been entirely convincing lately, despite a morale-boosting cup victory featuring a late brace from Danilo Pereira.
Both squads are grappling with injuries.
Al Ahli: Missing key players like defender Merih Demiral and midfielders Saad Balobaid and Abdullah Otayf.
*Predicted XI (4-4-2):* Al Sanbi; Ali Majrashi, Bakor, Roger Ibanez, Dams; Mahrez, Kessie, Alexsander, Galeno; Al Buraikan, Toney.
Al Ittihad: Facing several absences, particularly in attack with Houssem Aouar and Steven Bergwijn sidelined. Defenders Mario Mitaj, Al Amri, Kadesh, and midfielder Unai Hernandez are also unavailable.
*Predicted XI (3-4-3):* Rajkovic; Al Mousa, Pereira, Sharahili; Al Shanqeeti, Al Nashri, Fabinho, Al Shehri; Diaby, Benzema, Al Obod.
Despite Al Ittihad leading the league, their recent inconsistency makes this derby hard to call. Al Ahli's need for points and home advantage, combined with Al Ittihad's patchy form, leads the original source to suggest that backing Al Ahli for a win or draw (double chance) could offer good value.
Who is predicted to win?
The match is expected to be close. While Al Ittihad leads the league, their recent inconsistency makes it difficult. The source suggests a double chance bet on Al Ahli (win or draw) might be valuable.
Where can I watch the match?
In the UK, check the DAZN schedule as they show select Saudi Pro League games. In the US, check the Fox schedule or Fubo, as they televise some matches. Streaming might be available via DAZN or Fox digital platforms if televised.
Al Ittihad's position as league leaders might be deceptive due to recent inconsistent performances.
Al Ahli has a home advantage and is motivated to regain a top-four spot.
Both teams are missing key players due to injuries, which could impact the game's dynamics.
The prediction leans towards Al Ahli getting at least a draw from this encounter.
Despite the injuries and recent form, who do you think will come out on top in this Jeddah derby? Will Al Ittihad solidify their lead, or can Al Ahli cause an upset? Let us know your predictions!
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