As the Saudi Pro League season nears its end, Al Khaleej faces Al Ittihad in a crucial match at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium on Thursday.
Both teams are looking to break their recent poor form and secure vital points as the Saudi Pro League heads towards its climax.
Match Preview
Al Khaleej
Al Khaleej, currently in 11th place, has had a challenging season but has shown progress compared to their last campaign.
They are five points ahead of last season’s tally and have an eight-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Despite this, they have struggled recently, going winless in their last six league games, including three draws and three losses.
Their home form has been particularly troubling, with no wins at Dammam since February.
Al Ittihad
In contrast, Al Ittihad, who started the season strong, finds themselves in fifth place after a series of disappointing results.
They recently suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat to Al Ettifaq and have lost four consecutive matches across all competitions.
The team has been plagued by injuries, missing key players like Karim Benzema, Fabinho, and Luiz Felipe. This has significantly impacted their performance and squad depth.
Team News
Al Khaleej will be without Nayef Masoud, who is serving a one-match suspension due to a red card.
Fabio Martins is also doubtful after missing the last two league games due to injury.
Al Ittihad’s injury list is extensive, including notable absences such as Benzema, Fabinho, and Abderrazak Hamdallah.
The team’s lineup will likely see many local players stepping in for the injured stars.
Predicted Lineups
Al Khaleej: Al-Mahasnah; Al Yami, Al-Mosa, Kadesh, Al Jaadi; F Al-Ghamdi, Kante, A Al-Ghamdi; Al Amri, Romarinho, Al-Sahafi.
Al Ittihad: Sehic; Hamsal, Lopez, Al-Shanqiti, Rebocho; Hawsawi, Jung, Rodrigues; Narey, Al Salem, Al-Torais.
Prediction
Considering the current form and injury woes, Al Ittihad might struggle against Al Khaleej, who are fighting to secure their top-flight status.
Despite Al Ittihad’s superior record in past meetings, this encounter could end in a draw.
We predict a 1-1 scoreline, with Al Khaleej managing to secure the crucial point they need.
Al Ittihad 
Al Khaleej 
