The Saudi Pro League fixture between Al Ittihad and Al Ettifaq on May 10, 2024, is set to offer an exciting contest between two teams striving to salvage pride amid their recent disappointing form.
Taking place at the King Abdullah Sports City, this clash will bring together a struggling Al Ittihad and an inconsistent Al Ettifaq, both eager for victory.
Match Preview
Al Ittihad currently sits fifth in the league standings with 50 points, while Al Ettifaq is in eighth, one of four teams tied on 41 points.
The reigning league champions have had a forgettable 2023-24 season and are on the verge of conceding their title to Al-Hilal.
Their last hope for silverware evaporated with a King's Cup final loss to Al-Hilal, which was followed by a 3-1 defeat to Abha last week.
Team Form
Al Ittihad has only won one of their last five matches, while Al Ettifaq is winless in their last three, including a 2-1 defeat to Al Fayha. Both teams are looking to regain their form.
Team News
Al Ittihad
Karim Benzema is out due to recurring injuries, while Abderrazak Hamdallah remains doubtful after missing the Abha game.
Defenders Ahmed Sharahili, Ahmed Bamasud, Luiz Felipe, Madallah Al-Olayan, and Omar Hawsawi are all ruled out due to injuries.
Fabinho, Hamed Al-Ghamdi, and Sultan Al-Farhan are also unavailable.
Al Ettifaq
Steven Gerrard’s team has no reported injuries, but he may shake up the lineup following their recent blunt performance.
Demarai Gray could return to the starting lineup, replacing Haroune Camara in the three-man attack.
Predicted Lineups
Al Ittihad
Al-Mayouf; Al Yami, Al Mosa, Kadesh, Al Jaadi; F Al-Ghamdi, Kante, A. Al-Ghamdi; Al-Amri, Romarinho, Jota
Al Ettifaq:
Victor; Yousef, Hendry, Madu, Otaibi; Fofana, Medran, Wijnaldum; Ekambi, Dembele, Gray
Prediction
Both teams are desperate for a win, but their current poor form suggests a tightly contested game.
Given Al Ittihad's injury list and Al Ettifaq's attacking struggles, this match may end in a stalemate.
Our Prediction: Al Ittihad 1-1 Al Ettifaq
FAQ
Q: When and where will the match between Al Ittihad and Al Ettifaq take place? A: The match will take place on May 10, 2024, at the King Abdullah Sports City.
Q: What is the current league position of Al Ittihad and Al Ettifaq? A: Al Ittihad is currently fifth in the Saudi Pro League with 50 points, while Al Ettifaq is eighth, one of four teams tied on 41 points.
Q: How have Al Ittihad and Al Ettifaq performed recently? A: Al Ittihad has only won one of their last five matches, while Al Ettifaq is winless in their last three games.
Q: What is the injury status for both teams? A: Al Ittihad: Karim Benzema, Ahmed Sharahili, Ahmed Bamasud, Luiz Felipe, Madallah Al-Olayan, Omar Hawsawi, Fabinho, Hamed Al-Ghamdi, and Sultan Al-Farhan are unavailable. Abderrazak Hamdallah is doubtful. Al Ettifaq: No reported injuries.