Watch Al Ittihad vs Al Hilal: Benzema Stars in Saudi Clasico
In an eagerly awaited matchup dubbed ‘Al Clasico,’ Al Ittihad will face Al Hilal on Friday, October 24, as part of the Saudi Pro League. Both teams are experiencing a challenging start to the 2025-26 season. Presently, they sit in fourth and fifth places in the league standings.
Match Details
The game will kick off at 8:00 p.m. CAT, which is 9:00 p.m. in Saudi Arabia and 11:30 p.m. IST. It will take place at Al Inma Bank Stadium in Jeddah.
Team Form and Lineups
- Al Hilal: The team secured three wins and two draws from five league games. However, their performance in the AFC Champions League has been more promising, with three victories out of three matches.
- Al Ittihad: They have also achieved three wins, with one draw and one loss in their league matches. Recently, they registered their first win in the AFC Champions League, overcoming Al Shorta 4-1.
Injury Updates
Injury concerns may affect both teams:
- Al Ittihad: Karim Benzema is doubtful due to a calf injury.
- Al Hilal: Joao Cancelo is out with a hamstring injury, while Salem Al-Dawsari is doubtful with a hip issue.
Expected Lineups
| Team | Formation |
|---|---|
| Al Ittihad |
GK: Predrag Rajkovic RB: Jan-Carlo Simic, CB: Saad Al Mosa, CB: Danilo Pereira, LB: Mario Mitaj CM: N’Golo Kanté, Houssem Aouar, Fabinho RW: Moussa Diaby, CF: Saleh Al-Shehri, LW: Roger Fernandes |
| Al Hilal |
GK: Yassine Bounou RB: Hamad Al Yami, CB: Hassan Tombakti, CB: Kalidou Koulibaly, LB: Theo Hernandez CM: Ruben Neves, Nasser Al Dawsari RW: Kaio, CAM: Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, LW: Mohamed Kanno, CF: Marcos Leonardo |
Statistics Overview
- Al Hilal leads the SPL with an expected goals (xG) total of 15.73 but has scored only 15 times.
- Al Ittihad is noted for having the highest possession, averaging 7.8 passes per possession.
- Historically, Al Hilal has a strong advantage in their last ten meetings, winning seven and losing just once.
Viewing Options
Fans can catch the match on ESPN Africa across Sub-Saharan Africa and FanCode in India. Live updates will also be available through ESPN’s platforms.
This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams strive to improve their standings in the league and showcase their talents on the field.
