Al Hilal are getting closer to winning the Saudi Pro League title
Al Ahli comes into the contest following a series of tense performances, managing just two wins in their last five league matches. Their recent game against Al Wehda ended in a 1-1 draw. Despite this shaky form, Al Ahli has showcased promise in their return to the top tier of Saudi football and will be determined to bounce back with a win against league leaders Al Hilal.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal arrives at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium in stellar form, remaining undefeated throughout the season thus far. Their dominance was further highlighted by a commanding 4-1 victory over Al Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup. Eager to maintain their unbeaten streak and edge closer to securing the league title, Al Hilal aims to secure another win.
Kick-off:
Friday, 19 April 2024 at 6:00 PM GMT (11:30 PM IST)
Location: King Abdullah Sport City
Form:
Al Ahli (all competitions): W-L-D-W-D
Al Hilal (all competitions): W-W-W-W-W
Players to watch:
Roberto Firmino (Al Ahli)
Firmino distinguishes himself as an incredibly skilled player, demonstrating his finest abilities, particularly in crowded spaces. His adept positioning within the midfield allows him to penetrate defensive lines with ease, thanks to his exceptional vision. His sharp movements play a crucial role in his effectiveness during offensive plays. Known for his altruistic and optimistic demeanour, he embodies the qualities of a genuine team player. He has 10 goal involvements this season in the Saudi Pro League.
Malcom (Al Hilal)
Malcom offers versatility and adaptability, capable of operating on either the left or right flanks and even shifting into central areas. He possesses a remarkable pace and poses a challenge for defenders with his agility. His swift changes of direction and intricate dribbling skills often help him evade defensive pressure. Comfortable on the ball, he utilizes his nimble footwork to escape tight spots effectively. In the current Saudi Pro League season, he has contributed 13 goals and 5 assists to his team’s efforts.
Match facts:
- When the two sides faced off earlier in the season, Al Hilal managed to beat Al Ahli 3-1 at home.
- Al Ahli have failed to win a single match against Al Hilal in the last 5 meetings.
- Al Hilal continued their unbeaten run this season.
Al Ahli vs Al Hilal: Betting tips and odds
- Tip 1: Al Hilal to win this match – 21/20
- Tip 2: Over 2.5 goals to be scored in this match – 3/5
- Tip 3: Both teams to score – 4/7
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Injury & team news
In the upcoming match against Al Hilal, the Jeddah-based club will be missing Ziyad Aljohani, who sustained an injury early in April and is unlikely to recover in time. Additionally, Haitham Asiri, the right winger, remains sidelined as he continues his recovery. Adding to their woes, Al Ahli suffered a major setback in defence with right back Ali Majrashi sustaining a serious neck injury in their last match against Al Wehda, ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has been instrumental with 33 goals across all competitions, is sidelined with an injury, impacting their attack. Similarly, defender Ali Al-Bulayhi, a stalwart in the team’s defence, is also set to miss the clash against Al Ahli due to injury. Neymar Jr. and Muteb Al Mufarrij remain sidelined as they continue their rehabilitation from long-term injuries.
Head to Head:
Total Matches – 19
Al Ahli wins – 4
Al Hilal wins – 9
Draws – 6
Predicted Lineup
Al Ahli Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Mendy; Yaslam, Ibanez, Demiral, Hurayji; Alasmari, Kessie; Saint-Maximin, Firmino, Mahrez; Buraikan
Al Hilal predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Bono; Abdulhamid, Koulibaly, Al Bulaihi, Lodi; Neves, Milinkovic-Savic; Michael, Malcom, Al Dawsari; Al Shehri
Match prediction for Al Ahli vs Al Hilal
As the match approaches, both clubs exhibit differing trajectories. Despite Al Ahli’s reputation as a resilient team, Al Hilal’s overwhelming dominance throughout the Saudi Pro League season suggests that an upset by the Jeddah-based club is improbable. While the encounter promises to be closely fought, Al Hilal holds the advantage in the upcoming clash against Al Ahli Saudi.
Prediction: Al Ahil 1-2 Al Hilal
Telecast
India – Sony Liv, Sony Sports Network
UK – Sky Sports
US – ESPN
Nigeria – Sporty TV
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