Al-Ittihad, the oldest club in Saudi Arabia, is preparing for its upcoming match in the Saudi Professional League with high morale. The team received a significant boost with the return of three key players who missed the last match against Al-Hazm, which ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw. This return comes at a crucial time as the team seeks to get back on track and improve its position in the league standings.
Background and context of the match
Al-Ittihad, the reigning league champions, are experiencing an inconsistent season marked by fluctuating results and performances, which has sidelined them from the title race. After a historic season in which they clinched the championship, the team entered the current campaign with high hopes of maintaining their success, especially after acquiring international stars. However, the team has suffered from significant absences and recurring injuries that have impacted their technical stability. Every remaining league match represents an opportunity for Al-Ittihad to salvage their season and at least compete for a spot in Asian competitions, making securing three points in every game all the more crucial.
Details of the players' return and its expected impact
The most notable return is that of defender Hassan Kadash , who rejoins the back line after serving his suspension for being sent off in the Al-Hilal match. Kadash is a key player in the team's defensive system. In addition, the team welcomes back the influential foreign duo, Moroccan Youssef En-Nesyri and Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar , after the coaching staff, led by Portuguese coach Nuno Espírito Santo (or the current coach), opted to rest them in the previous match for tactical reasons, aiming to prepare them physically and avoid fatigue amidst the congested fixture schedule. The return of this trio is expected to provide the team with greater balance both defensively and offensively, and offer the coach a wider range of tactical options to overcome Al-Khaleej.
The importance of the meeting in the league race
Al-Ittihad will host Al-Khaleej next Friday evening in the 24th round of the Roshan League. Al-Ittihad enters the match in sixth place with 39 points, a position that falls short of their fans' expectations. A win in this match would bring them closer to the top four and keep their hopes of continental participation next season alive. Meanwhile, Al-Khaleej sits in ninth place with 27 points and is also aiming for a positive result to secure their position in the safe zone and avoid relegation. Therefore, a competitive and intense match is expected, as both teams fight to achieve their respective goals in the league.
