Saudi Pro League: Al-Hilal Aim for Unbeaten Run, Al-Ettifaq Seek Revival in Riyadh Showdown

Al-Hilal will face Al-Ettifaq at the Kingdom Arena on Friday in another round of the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League campaign. The home side have enjoyed yet another remarkable start to their season and sit atop the table with 25 points from nine matches as they continue their hunt for back-to-back league titles.

They played out a 1-1 draw against rivals Al-Nassr in their last league outing, with former Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic getting on the scoresheet in the second half to rescue a point for the Blue Waves.

Al-Ettifaq enjoyed a bright start to their league season but have since lost their way and find themselves in the bottom half of the pile. They were beaten 2-0 by newly-promoted Al-Qadisiyah last time out in the league and had a few good chances to get on the scoresheet themselves but could not find a way past Koen Casteels in the opposition goal.

The visitors sit 11th in the table with just 11 points from nine matches and will be looking to get their league campaign back on track this Friday.

Al-Hilal have picked up an outstanding 19 wins in their last 20 competitive outings. They are undefeated on home turf in the league since last March and will head into the midweek clash as clear favorites.

Al-Ettifaq's latest result ended a run of back-to-back defeats and they will be looking to build on that this weekend. They have, however, endured difficulties in this fixture historically and could lose this one.

The Stakes Are High

The Saudi Pro League match between Al Hilal and Al-Ettifaq will be played at the Kingdom Arena

The Saudi Pro League match between Al Hilal and Al-Ettifaq will be played on Friday, 8th November at 8:15 PM IST.

Al Hilal Looking to Maintain Unbeaten Run

Table toppers Al Hilal are set to lock horns with Al Ettifaq in a mouthwatering clash on Friday at the KINGDOM ARENA, aiming to continue their unbeaten streak in the competition.

Al Hilal are continuing to impress everyone with its performance after making an unbeaten start to the competition. After nine games, the Blue Waves are leading the charts with 25 points, maintaining a one-point lead over Al Ittihad. However, Al Nassr gave them a stern test in the previous league game, and they were lucky to draw the game.

Al Ettifaq Hoping to Bounce Back

Al Ettifaq, on the other hand, have struggled this season failing to secure the results on the road. This has seen their fans whistling boos for the players and coach. Steven Gerrard will aim to turn his side’s fortune against the champions with pressure mounting on his shoulders. Al Ettifaq are languishing in the 11th position and failed to register a win in six games.

Key Players to Watch Out For

Aleksandar Mitrovic has made an incredible start to the season for Al Hilal. The player has scored ten goals from the starting nine games to lead the goalscoring charts. He seems to be unstoppable at the moment and is a major threat to the opposition inside the box. Mitrovic’s physicality and height have already seen him score some extraordinary headers.

Moussa Dembele is having a fine campaign this season despite the team’s struggle. The former Lyon forward has scored three goals and has added another two assists to his name. He will be aiming to make his mark here to help his team turn the season around. Dembele’s pace and ability to convert his chances expertly make him the dangerous man here.

Team News and Injuries

Al Hilal have three injury concerns in their squad. Khalifah Aldawsari (knee), Mohammed Al Owais(back) and Neymar who recently returned from injury is dealing with a new hamstring injury.

For Al Ettifaq, Abdullah Ahmed Khateeb and Demirai Gray are out of this clash due to muscle injuries.

Head-to-Head Record

Total Matches – 19

⁠Al Hilal – 15

Al Ettifaq – 2

Draws – 2

Predicted Starting Lineups

Al Hilal

Bounou (GK); Cancelo, Koulibaly, Al-Bulayhi, Lodi; Kanno, Milinkovic-Savic; Malcom, Leonardo, Al-Dawsari; Mitrovic

Al Ettifaq

Rodak (GK); Al Otaibi, Sibyani, Hindi, Madu; Fofana, Wijnaldum, Al Malki; Ekambi, Dembele, Al Olayan

Prediction

The game is going to be an interesting one as Al Hilal takes on struggling Al Ettifaq who will be aiming to bounce back in this game. Considering the form of these two teams, we expect the hosts to secure the victory here.

Prediction: ⁠Al Hilal 3-1 Al Ettifaq