Al-Hilal Saudi Club announced via its official X platform that two of its key players, Salem Al-Dawsari and Brazilian Malcom Felipe, were absent from the team's group training session held on Saturday. This unexpected absence comes just days before the highly anticipated match against Al-Ahli in the Saudi Professional League, raising concerns among Al-Hilal fans.
According to the official statement, the duo's absence was due to the flu, which necessitated medical leave and prevented them from participating in preparations for the crucial match. On the other hand, training brought good news with the participation of Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly in part of the group session before continuing his pre-established rehabilitation program, increasing the likelihood of his return to bolster the team's defense soon.
Historical context and the importance of El Clásico
The Al-Hilal vs. Al-Ahli match, known as the "Saudi Clasico," is one of the oldest and fiercest rivalries in Saudi football history. This competition has deep roots, spanning decades, and has always been characterized by intense rivalry and impressive fan attendance, thanks to the massive fan base of both clubs. This season's encounter carries added significance; Al-Hilal aims to continue its historic unbeaten run in the league this season and take another step closer to officially clinching the title, while Al-Ahli, making a strong return to the top flight, aspires to achieve a positive result that will solidify its position in third place, which qualifies for the AFC Champions League.
The expected impact of the absences on both teams
The absence of players of the caliber of Salem Al-Dawsari , the 2022 AFC Player of the Year and a key tactical pillar in coach Jorge Jesus's lineup, and the Brazilian Malcom , who has been delivering exceptional performances and is one of the team's top scorers, will undoubtedly be a significant blow to Al-Hilal's attacking plans. Al-Hilal relies heavily on Al-Dawsari's skill in penetrating defenses and creating plays, and on Malcom's speed and clinical finishing in front of goal. This situation will present the Portuguese coach with a real challenge in selecting suitable replacements from his star-studded squad to maintain the team's usual attacking prowess. On the other hand, Al-Ahli might see these absences as an opportunity to surprise Al-Hilal and achieve a valuable victory that serves their continental ambitions and restores some of their former glory in classic encounters.
