Al Khaleej vs Al Ittihad: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups
On Saturday, the Saudi Pro League features a crucial match between Al Khaleej and Al Ittihad. Both teams are level on points after six games, but their paths have diverged this season. Al Khaleej welcomes the reigning champions, Al Ittihad, to Al Khaleej Club Stadium, hoping to capitalize on their home advantage.
Match Overview
- Match: Al Khaleej vs Al Ittihad
- Date: Saturday afternoon
- Location: Al Khaleej Club Stadium
Current Form
Al Khaleej has enjoyed a strong start to the season, earning 10 points from six matches. They have three victories, one draw, and two losses, placing them sixth in the league. The team has scored 13 goals while conceding six. Their recent performance includes a penalty shootout win over Al Taawoun, boosting their morale.
In contrast, Al Ittihad struggles to defend their title. With the same points tally as their opponents, they are slightly behind in seventh place. Their record shows three wins, one draw, and two defeats. After a promising start, they have experienced a dip in form, failing to secure a win in their last three league matches.
Team Performance
Al Khaleej has been particularly strong at home, losing just once in their last five outings. Their attacking prowess is evident, with 11 goals scored during that stretch. They aim to leverage this momentum against Al Ittihad, who have historically dominated this matchup. Al Ittihad has won six of the past ten meetings between the teams.
Injury and Suspension Updates
Al Khaleej has no injury or suspension concerns, providing coach Georgios Donis a fully fit squad. After resting key players for the King’s Cup, the expected lineup includes:
- Moris
- Saeed Al Hamsal
- Mohammed Al-Khabrani
- Bart Schenkeveld
- Pedro Rebocho
- Kostas Fortounis
- Joshua King
For Al Ittihad, the absence of Muath Faqeehi due to a foot injury remains a concern. Additionally, Hasan Kadesh and Abdulrahman Al-Obood are sidelined. Ahmed Al-Julaydan, previously suspended, may return to the starting lineup.
Predictions
This match is poised to be competitive, reflecting the teams’ similar points but differing trajectories. Home advantage could bolster Al Khaleej’s chances, while Al Ittihad’s recent King’s Cup victory may restore their confidence. Predictions suggest a narrow win for Al Ittihad, with a possible scoreline of 2-1.