Al-Ittihad is preparing for a crucial and decisive match when they host Al-Fayha at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, as part of the Saudi Professional League. Al-Ittihad fans are eagerly awaiting the tactical choices that Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo will make, as he seeks to return the team to winning ways and improve their position in the league standings.
General context and importance of the match
Al-Ittihad enters this match fully aware that dropping any points is unacceptable, especially given the fierce competition for the top spots that qualify for Asian championships. After a season packed with major international signings, such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, and Fabinho, fan expectations have skyrocketed, and any slip-up will be met with a wave of criticism. Therefore, the Al-Fayha match represents an opportunity for Gallardo to solidify his tactical approach and prove his ability to lead the Tigers towards achieving their desired goals. A victory in this match would not only secure three valuable points but would also boost the players' confidence and morale before the crucial final stages of the season.
The opponent is not easy: Al-Fayhaa challenge
On the other hand, Al-Fayha has proven to be a formidable opponent, boasting a well-organized defense and the ability to launch swift and dangerous counter-attacks. Matches between the two teams are always highly competitive, and Al-Fayha has consistently proven to be a stumbling block for even the biggest clubs. This puts added pressure on Al-Ittihad's players and their coach, forcing them to prepare for the match with the utmost focus to avoid any unpleasant surprises that could complicate their league campaign.
Predicted lineup and Gallardo's adjustments
Gallardo is expected to make some changes to the starting lineup from recent matches, seeking a balance between defensive duties and attacking effectiveness. Predictions suggest the following possible lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Abdullah Al-Muaiouf
- Defense: Hassan Kadash, Ahmed Hegazi, Luiz Felipe, Madallah Al-Olayan
- Midfield: N'Golo Kanté, Fabinho, Faisal Al-Ghamdi
- Forwards: Romarinho, Karim Benzema, Abderrazak Hamdallah
This formation reflects a reliance on the experience of world-class midfielders like Kanté and Fabinho to dictate the tempo and control the midfield, while granting the formidable attacking trio of Romarinho, Benzema, and Hamdallah freedom of movement in the final third to threaten the opponent's goal. The final decision rests with coach Gallardo, who will select the players most prepared both technically and physically for this crucial match.
