Al Hilal vs Al Ahli: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Top-of-the-table Al Hilal goes up against underdogs Al Ahli

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal and Al Ahli lock horns in a highly anticipated clash on Friday, Al Hilal remains the only unbeaten club in this year's Saudi Pro League with 26 points from 10 matches - 8 wins and 2 draws. Playing in front of their passionate supporters at the King Fahd International Stadium could provide Al Hilal with an extra boost of energy and motivation.

Al Ahli, on the other hand, are determined to prove their mettle against their formidable opponents. Despite having two losses and one draw, they have regained their momentum, and sit just 4 points behind the table toppers and their opponents in this match. Their attacking trio of Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Allan Saint-Maximin can be a formidable threat to their defense, with their pace, skill, and finishing ability.

Kick-off:

Friday, 27 October 2023 at 2:00 PM ET (11:30 PM IST)

Location: King Fahd International Stadium

Form:

Al Hilal (Saudi Pro League): W-D-W-W-W

Al Ahli (Saudi Pro League): W-L-D-W-W

Players to watch

Aleksandar Mitrovic (Al Hilal):

Aleksandar Mitrovic's three-goal masterclass inspired Al Hilal to a resounding 6-0 triumph over Mumbai City in Riyadh on Monday, extending their dominance in Asian Champions League Group D. The former Fulham striker has been in incredible form this season for both his country and club. He leads the goalscoring for the table toppers with 7 goals and 2 assists in 8 matches.

Riyad Mahrez (Al Ahli):

Mahrez's arrival at Al Ahli was a major coup for the Saudi club, and he has quickly become one of the most important players in the league. In his first season, he has scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists in 10 appearances. His performances have helped Al Ahli to a strong start to the season with the club currently in fourth place in the Saudi Pro League points table. He has been a key player in Al Ahli's attack, providing creativity and scoring goals.

Match facts:

• Al-Hilal have the best defensive record in the league, with barely seven goals conceded throughout 10 league appearances.
• The home side has recorded six consecutive clean sheets.
• Al Ahli has a mixed away record this season with two wins and two losses on the road.

Injury and Team news for Al Hilal vs Al Ahli:

As the Al Ahli Saudi team prepares for the upcoming encounter, the manager finds himself in an enviable position with a squad brimming with health and fitness. Every player is available for selection, leaving no concerns regarding injuries or physical limitations.

Al Hilal will only be without their star man Neymar, who suffered an injury during the international back and is expected to miss the rest of the season.

Head to Head:

Total Matches – 18

Al Hilal wins – 8

Al Ahli wins – 4

Draws – 6

Predicted Lineup for Al Hilal vs Al Ahli:

Al Hilal predicted lineup:

Bono (GK); Abdulhamid, Koulibaly, Al Bulaihi, Al-Shahrani; Milinkovic-Savic, Neves; Malcom, Michael, Al-Dawsari; Mitrovic

Al Ahli predicted lineup:

Mendy (GK); Alhurayji, Ibanez, Hindi, Al-Ammar; Al-Majhad, Kessie; Mahrez, Veiga, Saint-Maximin; Firmino

Match Prediction for Al Hilal vs Al Ahli:

The victory against Mumbai City means Al Hilal are now unbeaten in 14 matches across all competitions. They now face another member of the ‘big four’ with Al Ahli. Despite their recent promotion, Matthias Jaissle's team carries a rich legacy and enjoys the financial backing of the Saudi PIF. Though newly elevated to the top tier, Matthias Jaissle's squad will boasts a challenge to the table toppers and hand them over their first loss of the season.

Prediction: Al Hilal 1-0 Al Ahli

Telecast:

India – Sony Liv, Sony Sports Network

UK – Sky Sports

US –  ESPN

Nigeria –  Sporty TV

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