On Wednesday evening, all eyes in Saudi Arabia will be on King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, where Al-Ahli will host Al-Ettifaq in a crucial and highly anticipated match, part of the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League. This encounter holds added significance for both teams: Al-Ahli aims to continue their pursuit of the league leaders, while Al-Ettifaq seeks to improve their position in the standings and demonstrate their ability to compete with the top clubs.
A rich history and Al-Ahly's superiority
The Al-Ahli vs. Al-Ettifaq match represents a new chapter in the long-standing rivalry between two of the Kingdom's most prestigious clubs. Historically, Al-Ahli holds the advantage in Professional League encounters. Out of 29 matches played between the two sides, Al-Ahli has won 15, compared to 8 victories for Al-Ettifaq, while 6 matches ended in a draw. This dominance extends to the goal tally as well, with Al-Ahli's attack having scored 59 goals against Al-Ettifaq, who have responded with 37, giving the home side a morale boost before kickoff.
Different motives, shared ambitions
Al-Ahli enters the match in third place in the standings with 40 points. The team has been performing exceptionally well this season since its return to the top flight, bolstered by world-class signings that have made a significant difference. A victory in this match would keep Al-Ahli firmly in the title race and reduce the points gap with the league leaders. Meanwhile, Al-Ettifaq sits in the middle of the table in seventh place with 29 points. The team, coached by Englishman Steven Gerrard, aims for a positive result that reflects the scale of the club's ambitious project and helps them climb towards the top positions that would qualify them for continental competitions.
A constellation of stars in a tactical confrontation
Al-Ahli boasts a formidable squad featuring top-class stars, spearheaded by Algerian playmaker Riyad Mahrez, Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino, Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié, and the reliable Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. While the team may be missing some key defenders like Ali Majrashi and Zakaria Hawsawi due to suspension, coach Matías Jässel has several options to compensate for these absences.
On the other hand, after a period of inconsistent results, Al-Ettifaq is looking to make a strong impression. Coach Gerard is relying on the experience of Dutch captain Georginio Wijnaldum in midfield, and the attacking prowess of Frenchman Moussa Dembélé and Jamaican Demarai Gray. The match is expected to be a tactical battle between Al-Ahli's desire to dominate offensively and Al-Ettifaq's attempt to impose defensive discipline and rely on quick counter-attacks, promising an exciting and unpredictable encounter.
