Both ides meet to make a name for themselves in Asia’s prestigious tournament
Having faced a dip in their recent performances, Navbahor are now set to confront the Asian powerhouse Al-Ittihad on their home turf. After securing points in the group stage, they secured a spot in the knockout rounds. They won their last group stage match against Mumbai City FC to end the group stages 3 points behind the group leaders Al Hilal.
At the halfway point of the season, Al-Ittihad are grappling to establish themselves in the Saudi Pro League, facing a challenging journey to secure a favourable position by the season’s end. Marcelo Gallardo has encountered challenges since joining the club, with the team suffering three defeats and managing just two victories in the last six matches. Despite these league struggles, Gallardo is targeting a successful run in the AFC Champions League.
Kick-Off:
Thursday, 15 February at 07:30 PM IST
Location: Markaziy Stadium
Form
Navbahor (in all competitions): L-L-D-W-D
Al Ittihad (in all competitions): L-L-L-W-W
Players to watch out
Jamshid Iskanderov (Navbahor)
Jamshid Iskanderov stands out as the key player for FC Navbahor, operating at a level above most players in the Super League. His exceptional creativity sets him apart, making him the most formidable asset in the team. Iskanderov’s remarkable skills are evident in his precise passes, powerful kicks, and impressive set-piece deliveries. he has five goal involvements in the seven AFC Champions League games that he has played this season.
Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad)
The highly effective French forward, Karim Benzema, has showcased his goal-scoring effectiveness since joining Al-Ittihad. Benzema has made an immediate and substantial impact, contributing nine goals in the Saudi Pro Leagu. He is yet to score in the AFC Champions League this season, with his clutch performances in the knockout stages throughout his career, he will look to open his tally.
Match facts:
- Navbahor have won only two games in their last five home games.
- Al Ittihad, on the other hand, have won three of their last five games away from home.
- The two sides have never met in a competition before.
Trending World Football Articles:
Injury and team news
The home side is without any injury as they head into this crucial Round of 16 match. For the away side, Muhannad Shanqeeti is currently sidelined with a muscle injury, and the expected recovery timeline is unknown. Luiz Felipe is unavailable due to injury, and the duration of his absence is uncertain.
Ahmed Mohammed Sharahili is facing a cruciate ligament injury, with an anticipated return in late May 2024. Ahmed Bamsaud is also dealing with a cruciate ligament injury, and the recovery period remains unknown. Abdullah Al Jadani is on the path to recovery from a cruciate ligament injury, with a projected return in late March 2024.
Head-to-Head
This is the first-ever meeting between the two Asian sides.
Predicted Lineup
Navbahor Predicted Lineup (4-5-1):
Yusupov; Golban, Ivanovic, Milovic, Yoldoshev; Dokic, Boltaboev; Ismailov, Iskanderov, Sobirjonov; Tabatadze
Al Ittihad predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Grohe; Alolayan, Kadesh, Hegazy, Al-Yami; Al-Ghamdi, Al-Farhan, Kante; Al-Sahafi, Benzema, Romarinho
Match Prediction for Navbahor vs Al Ittihad:
Playing in their familiar Namangan stadium gives Navbahor a slight edge. They’ve demonstrated resilience in the group stage, pulling off comeback against Mumbai City. Travelling to Uzbekistan might pose a challenge for Al-Ittihad, especially with a short turnaround from their domestic league. The reigning Saudi champions boast a strong roster and are considered favourites.
Prediction: Navbahor 1-2 Al-Ittihad
Telecast
India – Fancode
UK – No telecast
US – Paramount+
Nigeria – No telecast
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