Al-Hilal, the leader of the Saudi Professional League, has received a significant defensive blow before its next match, as it has been officially confirmed that its international defender Hassan Tambakti will miss the match against Al-Akhdoud due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
Details of the suspension and its impact on the back line
Timbukti's suspension came after he received another yellow card during the team's last match, bringing his total to the maximum number of cautions that trigger a one-match ban according to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation's regulations. Timbukti's absence is a significant blow for Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, especially since the player has established himself as a key pillar in Al-Hilal's defense since joining from Al-Shabab, forming a formidable partnership with Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly or veteran Ali Al-Bulaihi.
The context of Al-Hilal's exceptional season
This absence comes at a time when Al-Hilal continues its exceptional run this season, soaring to the top of the Roshan League standings with a comfortable lead over its closest rivals, achieving a historic and consecutive winning streak. The team relies heavily on its defensive solidity, considered the strongest in the league, which makes any absence in this area, especially of a player of Timbuktu's caliber, a cause for concern for the coaching staff, who are striving to maintain their unbeaten record and move towards securing the title early.
The importance and expected impact of absence
The upcoming match against Al-Akhdoud is crucial as it represents another step in Al-Hilal's journey to reclaim the title. Despite the significant difference in quality between the two teams, league matches are never without surprises. The absence of Timbuktu will put Al-Hilal's defense to the test, and coach Jesus will have to find a suitable replacement to maintain the team's balance and stability. Young defender Khalifa Al-Dossari is expected to be the most likely option to fill this void, offering him an opportunity to prove his abilities and earn the coach's trust at this critical juncture in the season. Al-Hilal fans will be closely monitoring the back line's performance, hoping that this absence won't weaken the solid defensive system the team has built throughout the season.
