The coaching staff of Al-Hilal, led by Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, remain uncertain about whether to field international defender Hassan Tambakti in the upcoming match against Al-Fateh in the quarter-finals of the King's Cup. Despite the player's full fitness, a final decision has not yet been made, leaving all possibilities open before the crucial encounter.
Timbuktu's readiness and the postponed technical decision
Hassan Tambakti has successfully completed his treatment and rehabilitation program and is now medically cleared to play. He has recovered from the injury that recently sidelined him, preventing him from appearing in the team's previous two matches: against Al-Fateh in the Saudi Professional League and against Al-Shorta of Iraq in the AFC Champions League. However, the decision to include him in the starting lineup or even the matchday squad rests with coach Jesus, who is carefully considering his options. He is expected to make his final decision based on the player's performance in the final training session this Friday evening and an assessment of his full physical and technical fitness.
The importance of the King's Cup and the context of the match
The King's Cup holds immense importance in Saudi football, being the second most prestigious domestic competition after the league. Al-Hilal, the defending champions, aim to continue their title defense and secure a domestic double. The "Leaders" reached this stage after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Al-Akhdoud, while Al-Fateh advanced by defeating Al-Jabalain 2-1. Cup matches are always unpredictable, prompting coaches to exercise caution in selecting their optimal lineups.
The impact of Timbuktu's return on Al-Hilal's defense
Hassan Tambakti, 26, is considered one of the most prominent defenders in Saudi football and a strategic signing for Al-Hilal during the last summer transfer window, having joined from Al-Shabab. This season, he has featured in 13 matches across all competitions, totaling 1096 minutes of play, and delivered strong performances before suffering an injury. His return represents a significant boost to Al-Hilal's defense, providing a solid option alongside Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly and Ali Al-Bulaihi, thus increasing the team's defensive depth at a crucial stage of the season. However, coach Jorge Jesus may prefer not to risk him, allowing him more time to fully regain his match fitness.
The Kingdom Arena is scheduled to host the Al-Hilal vs. Al-Fateh match at 5:40 pm tomorrow, Saturday, in a match in which both teams are looking to secure a place in the semi-finals of the most prestigious cup.
