Al-Ahli aims to secure third place by facing Damac in the Roshan League
Al-Ahli Saudi FC is preparing for a crucial away match against Damac FC in the Saudi Professional League. German coach Matthias Jäissle for another victory to solidify the team's position in the top four, relying on a constellation of international stars who are spearheading Al-Ahli's ambitions this season.
Background to the match and the context of Al Ahly's exceptional season
This meeting comes amidst an exceptional season for Saudi football in general and for Al-Ahli in particular. Following its swift return to the Professional League, Al-Ahli entered a new era as one of the clubs backed by the Public Investment Fund, enabling it to make high-profile signings during the summer transfer window. The management successfully attracted prominent international names such as Algerian Riyad Mahrez , Brazilian Roberto Firmino , Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy , and Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié , in addition to defenders Roger Ibañez and Merih Demiral. These signings have raised expectations among Al-Ahli fans, who hope to see their team compete strongly for domestic titles and secure a place in the AFC Champions League.
The importance of the match and its impact on the team's trajectory
This match is of paramount importance to Al-Ahli, as a victory would solidify their hold on third place, a position that guarantees direct qualification for the next edition of the AFC Champions League. A positive result would also provide a significant morale boost, allowing the team to maintain their good form and compete until the very end of the season. Regionally and internationally, the spotlight is on Al-Ahli's international stars, whose performances in the Roshan League, a destination for top footballers, are followed by millions around the world, adding another dimension to the significance of every match the team plays.
Al-Ahli's expected lineup against Damac
Coach Matthias Jäsle has largely settled on his starting lineup and is expected to stick with his usual 4-3-3 formation. Al Ahli's predicted lineup is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy
- Defense: Ali Majrashi, Merih Demiral, Roger Ibanez, Zakaria Hawsawi
- Midfield: Franck Kessie, Ziyad Al-Juhani (or Mohammed Al-Majhad)
- Forwards: Riyad Mahrez, Allan Saint-Maximin, Roberto Firmino
Ysele relies on the defensive solidity provided by the duo of Demiral and Ibanez, and Mendy's experience in goal. Kessie forms a key pillar in midfield with his ability to link defense and attack. The team's attacking force remains in its front three, where Mahrez and Saint-Maximin orchestrate play from the wings with their speed and skill, while Firmino positions himself as a center forward capable of converting chances into goals.
