Preview: Al Ahli vs Al Ettifaq Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | Saudi Pro League 2025-26
Can the reigning Asian champions extend their winning streak against Al Ettifaq?
King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah gears up to host the Matchweek 18 fixture of the Saudi Pro League, where reigning Asian champions Al Ahli Saudi take on Al Ettifaq.
The reigning Asian champions are placed second and are five points behind the table toppers, Al Hilal. They have recently won games against teams like Neom and Al Khaleej. They are led by German gaffer Matthias Jaissle, who has previously managed Red Bull Salzburg.
The Dammam-based outfit are placed sixth and would be keen to get the better of the Asian champions. They have won three out of their last five games and are coming after a win over Al Kholood. They are led by Saad Al Shehri, who has previously led the Saudi Arabia national team and the U23 team.
Kick-off:
- Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Stadium: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium
- Date: Wednesday, January 28
- Kick-off Time: 11:00 p.m. IST
- Referee: TBD
- VAR: In use
Players to Watch
Franck Kessie (Al Ahli)
The Ivorian midfielder has played for Atalanta, AC Milan and FC Barcelona before making a move to Jeddah in 2023. Since then, he has been a crucial player for them and helped them to win the AFC Champions League Elite last season. So far, he has played 12 games, scored once and given one assist.
Georgino Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq)
The Dutch midfielder has plied his trade across some of the prestigious European clubs and has won the EPL with Liverpool, Ligue 1 with PSG and reached Europa League finals with Roma. He joined Al Ettifaq in 2023. In 16 games, he has scored 9 goals and given 3 assists, too, this season.
Match Facts
- Omar Al Somah from Al Ahli is the leading goalscorer in this fixture.
- The last meeting between these sides ended in a draw.
- Al Ettifaq won the last game when these two sides locked horns last in Jeddah.
Al Ahli Saudi vs Al Ettifaq: Betting Tips and Odds
- Match to end in a draw – 7/2 with bet365
- Ivan Toney to score – 4/6 with bet365
- Al Ahli Saudi 2-2 Al Ettifaq -18/1 with bet365
Injury and Team News
Merih Demiral seems doubtful for the next game after picking up a hamstring injury.
Al Ettifaq are set to miss the presence of Ahmed Koka and Madallah Al Olayan.
Head-to-Head
Total matches: 66
Al Ahli won: 34
Al Ettifaq won: 17
Draws: 15
Predicted Lineups
Al Ahli predicted lineup (4-4-2)
Al Sanbi (GK); Majrashi, Hamed, Ibanez, Al Hawsawi; Mahrez, Kessie, Atangana, Galeno; Al Buraikan, Toney
Al Ettifaq predicted lineup (4-4-2)
Rodak (GK); Madu, Hendry, Al Khateeb, Otaibi; Nkota, Al Ghamdi, Ali, Duda; Wijnaldum, Dembele
Match Prediction
Both teams would be keen to win the game and climb higher in the points table. Looking at the recent form of both teams, we expect the game to end in a thrilling draw.
Prediction: Al Ahli Saudi 2-2 Al Ettifaq
Telecast Details
India: Fancode
UK: DAZN UK
USA: fubo TV, FOX Deportes
Nigeria: Star Times App, Sporty TV
When and where is the Al Ahli Saudi vs Al Ettifaq Pro League 2025-26 match?
Wednesday, January 28, at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Kick-off is scheduled for 11:00 p.m. IST.
Where and how to watch Saudi Pro League 2025-26 in the UK?
People can tune into DAZN UK to watch the matches live.
Where and how to watch the Saudi Pro League 2025-26 in India?
FanCode can be used to watch all the matches live.
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In addition to writing articles on World and Indian Football, Saikat has also covered tournaments like the Durand Cup, Indian Super League, and Hockey India League. Notably, his exceptional communication skills have seen him interview legendary icons like Olympic 2024 gold medalist Yibbi Jansen, former Real Madrid player Javi Hernandez, and many more such sporting stalwarts.