Clásico Showdown: New Stars Emerge in High-Stakes Rivalry

The 2025-26 Roshn Saudi League is heating up as two titans of Saudi football, Al Ittihad and Al Hilal, prepare for a much-anticipated clash in the first Saudi Clasico of the season. This encounter will take place on October 24, 2025, in Jeddah. Both teams enter this match with high stakes and significant expectations.

New Managers and Rising Stars

This season sees Sergio Conceicao at the helm of Al Ittihad, while Al Hilal has brought in Simone Inzaghi. Conceicao is navigating his second match in the league, having previously drawn against Al Fayha. Inzaghi’s leadership has already made an impact, leading Al Hilal to success in the FIFA Club World Cup prior to their league campaign.

• Sergio Conceicao: Al Ittihad’s new manager, facing his first Clasico.
• Simone Inzaghi: Newly appointed Al Hilal manager, looking to make a mark outside Italy.

Current League Performance

Although Al Hilal started the season slowly, with two wins and two draws in their initial four matches, they have since gained momentum. Their recent performances include:

• A commanding victory over Al Ettifaq.
• A comprehensive win against Al Sadd in the AFC Champions League, keeping a perfect record in this tournament.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has emerged as a critical player for Al Hilal, contributing notably against Al Ittihad. He has achieved:

• One goal and five assists in nine appearances against Al Ittihad.
• Recent Man of the Match awards showcasing his impact on the pitch.

Key Players to Watch

Both teams boast star players capable of changing the game. For Al Ittihad, Karim Benzema shines with:

• Five goals against Al Hilal, his highest tally against any RSL side.
• A remarkable four goals in the last three Clasico meetings.

Malcom shares the spotlight for Al Hilal, directly contributing to:

• Eight goals in ten matches against Al Ittihad (five goals and three assists).

The Importance of the Clasico

This rivalry reflects not just dominance on the field, but the aspirations of both clubs within the Saudi Pro League. With Al Ittihad currently sitting at the lower end of the table for a defending champion, the stakes are crucial for Conceicao. They seek their first consecutive victories against Al Hilal since 2016.

The Clasico promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the top talents and tactical acumen of both coaches. The atmosphere at Alinma Stadium is always electric, and this match will not disappoint.

Conclusion

As the teams prepare to clash, fans and analysts alike are eager to see which manager will emerge victorious. Will Conceicao solidify his place with a narrative shift, or will Inzaghi reaffirm Al Hilal’s dominance? The Clasico awaits, and all eyes will be on Jeddah this Friday.