Al-Ahli is preparing for a crucial and highly anticipated match against Al-Ettifaq in the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League, to be held at Prince Mohammed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam. German coach Matthias Jäissle, Al-Ahli's manager, faces a significant challenge in this encounter, as he will have to make necessary changes to his starting lineup due to the absence of several key players.
General context and importance of the match
This match comes amidst an exceptional season for the Roshan League, which has attracted global attention thanks to the international stars who have joined its clubs. Al-Ahli, returning to the Pro League this season, occupies a high position in the standings and is striving to solidify its place in the top four to secure a spot in next season's AFC Champions League. On the other hand, Al-Ettifaq, under the leadership of English coach Steven Gerrard, is experiencing a period of inconsistent results and is seeking a morale-boosting victory against a top team to get back on track and improve its mid-table position. Therefore, the match holds great importance for both teams in achieving their seasonal objectives.
The impact of absences on Ysle's plans
Al-Ahli will be missing four key players across all positions, with right-back Ali Majrashi and Turkish defender Merih Demiral both sidelined due to injury, in addition to Zakaria Hawsawi and midfielder Valentin Atangana. These absences, particularly in defense, will force coach Yassla to reshuffle his defensive lineup. He is expected to rely on Brazilian Roger Ibanez as the leader of the defense, while also giving other players like Rayan Hamed the opportunity to prove themselves in this crucial position.
Al Ahly's expected lineup
Despite the absences, Al Ahli boasts a constellation of stars capable of making a difference. It is expected that Yassla will start the match with a balanced lineup while maintaining their attacking identity, and it may be as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy
- Defense: Bassam Al-Harigi, Roger Ibanez, Ryan Hamed, Saad Balabid
- Midfield: Franck Kessie, Ziyad Al-Jahani, Gabri Vega
- Forwards: Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Allan Saint-Maximin
Al-Ahli fans are placing high hopes on their formidable attacking trio of Algerian Riyad Mahrez, Brazilian Roberto Firmino, and Frenchman Allan Saint-Maximin to secure a victory in the match. Al-Ahli recently triumphed in their last official match against Neom FC with a score of 3-1 in the King's Cup and are eager to continue their winning streak in the league.
