Al-Hilal is preparing for a high-stakes match when they visit their city rivals Al-Shabab in the Riyadh derby, as part of the Saudi Professional League. This match comes at a crucial point in the season, as "The Boss" seeks to continue their historic winning streak and secure their lead in the standings. However, their task will not be easy given the number of key players absent from the squad.
Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus faces a real challenge in selecting his starting lineup, as the team is missing several key players for various reasons, most notably injuries. At the top of the list of absentees is Brazilian star Neymar da Silva, who is out for the rest of the season with a cruciate ligament injury. In addition, other players are suffering from various injuries that have prevented them from being fully fit, putting Al-Hilal's squad depth to the test against a tough opponent.
General context and historical background of the confrontation
The Al-Hilal vs. Al-Shabab match is considered one of the strongest and most prestigious derbies in Saudi football, bringing together two of the capital city's biggest clubs. Historically, encounters between the two teams have been characterized by intense rivalry, excitement, and fierce competition, regardless of their positions in the league standings. This match has always been an event eagerly anticipated by Saudi football fans, given its significant technical and popular value, and has witnessed unforgettable moments and decisive goals over the years that have shaped the history of both clubs.
The importance of the match and its expected impact
This match holds added importance for both teams this season. For Al-Hilal, a win would mean taking another significant step towards securing the league title, maintaining their unbeaten record, and continuing their record-breaking winning streak both domestically and internationally. Any slip-up could give their rivals a glimmer of hope, something Jorge Jesus and his men are determined to avoid. On the other hand, Al-Shabab aims to achieve a positive result against the league leaders, which would provide a huge morale boost for the remainder of the season and strengthen their position in the standings. A victory against Al-Hilal at this stage would be a championship in itself for any team in the league and would have a significant positive impact on Al-Shabab and their fans.
Under these circumstances, Jesus is expected to rely on the readily available substitutes in his star-studded squad to compensate for the absences, a tactic that has proven successful throughout the season. The match will be a test of Al-Hilal's ability to cope with the pressure of a congested fixture schedule and a depleted squad, and a confirmation that the strength of "The Boss" lies in its collective system, not just its individual players.
