Al Fateh vs Al Ahli Saudi Predicted lineup, betting tips, odds, injury news, H2H, telecast | Saudi Pro League 2024-25
Sons of the Palm lock horns against the Jeddah-based outfit to kickstart the second matchweek.
Al-Fateh FC, who finished seventh in the Saudi Pro League last season, are determined to climb into the top four as early as possible this season. However, their campaign got off to a disappointing start with a heavy defeat in their opening fixture, as a hat-trick from Quinones led to a humiliating loss against Al-Qadisiya at the Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd Stadium. Al-Fateh will be keen to shake off this early setback and focus on their upcoming match against a formidable opponent, Al-Ahli Saudi.
Leveraging their home advantage at the Prince Abdullah Bin Jalawi Stadium, Al-Fateh will aim to rally their supporters and secure a much-needed victory to regain momentum and push towards their goal of breaking into the league’s top tier.
Al-Ahli Saudi, who finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season just behind Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, have maintained their position early in this season, currently sitting third in the league table following a victory over Al-Orobah. Goals from Roberto Firmino and Darisi secured all three points for Al-Ahli in their last match. The team’s success will heavily rely on their attacking trio—Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firminio, and Veiga—who are tasked with ensuring a steady flow of goals.
On the defensive end, Eduardo Mendy, Demiral, and Ibanez will be crucial in keeping their defence solid and maintaining clean sheets. While Al-Ahli are aiming to surpass Al-Hilal for the top spot, they must remain cautious against Al-Fateh, who pose a significant threat, especially on their home turf. Al-Ahli are determined to continue their winning momentum and climb to the summit of the league table with a victory in the upcoming fixture.
We can anticipate this match to be an extraordinary, goal-frenzied thriller as both sides are poised to leave no stone unturned. Al-Ahli Saudi will aim to extend their winning streak to two, while Al-Fateh SC will look to capitalize on their home-ground advantage to secure their first points in the Saudi Pro League this season. Al-Fateh will be determined to claim all three points with a victory over Al-Ahli Saudi, making this a highly entertaining and competitive encounter.
Kick-Off:
Tuesday, 27 August 2024 at 9:15 PM IST
Location: Prince Abdullah bin Jalawi Stadium, al-Mubarraz, Saudi Arabia
Form:
Al Fateh (in all competitions): L-L-W-L-D
Al Ahli (in all competitions): W-L-D-W-W
Players to watch :
Lucas Zelarayan (Al Fateh)
Lucas Zelarayan, the 32-year-old Armenian international born in Cordoba, Argentina, began his football journey with Belgrano, where he made 75 appearances and scored ten goals. After a successful stint, he moved to Tigres UANL, making over 100 appearances. Zelarayan then showcased his skills at Columbus Crew, where his impressive performances earned him a contract with Al Fateh in 2023. Since joining Al Fateh, Zelarayan has become a crucial player for the team, scoring eight goals in 36 matches.
Internationally, Zelarayan faced a unique choice between representing Argentina or Armenia. Opting for Armenia, he made his debut in a 1-1 draw against Iceland during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification fixtures. He netted his first international goal in a 4-2 victory over Wales in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifications. As a versatile attacking midfielder, Zelarayan will be pivotal in Al Fateh’s upcoming clash against Al Ahli. His ability to control the tempo of the game and provide precise deliveries to his attacking partners will be crucial if Al Fateh are to overcome their formidable opponents.
Riyad Mahrez (Al Ahli)
Riyad Mahrez, one of Africa’s finest exports to European top-flight football, began his career with Quimper, making 27 appearances and scoring once before moving to Le Havre. His standout performances there earned him a move to Leicester City, where he played a key role in their miraculous Premier League title win in 2016. His success at Leicester caught the eye of Manchester City, where he made 145 appearances and scored 43 goals over three years. In 2023, Mahrez transitioned to Al Ahli, where his impact has been immediate.
He has made 33 appearances and scored 11 goals, significantly contributing to the team’s success. As the captain of the Algerian national team, Mahrez has scored 31 goals in 93 matches. Known for his exceptional ball control and playmaking abilities, he will be crucial in creating opportunities for teammates like Roberto Firmino. Having been named Algerian Footballer of the Year for the 2015-16 season, Mahrez’s experience and skill will be pivotal as Al Ahli aim to extend their winning streak.
Match facts
- Al Fateh won a solitary game in their last five matches.
- Al Ahli won three games in their last five matches.
- Al Fateh are coming after a big defeat to Al Qadisiyah.
Al Fateh vs Al Ahli: Betting Tips and Odds
- Tip 1 – Al Ahli to win the match.
- Tip 2 – Roberto Firmino to score first.
- Tip 3 – Goals over 2.5
Injury and team news
Slaven Bilic will have the luxury to field his best combination of players from a fully fit and available side.
Al Ahli are set to miss the presence of Al-Majhad, Al-Ammar and Abdullah Otayf in the upcoming match.
Head-to-head record
Total matches – 28
Al Fateh won – 07
Al Ahli won – 15
Matches drawn – 06
Predicted lineup
Al Fateh predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Szappanos (GK); Baattia, Denayer, Saadane, Al-Zarie ; Al-Mousa, Al-Fuhaid; Al-Othman, Zelarayan, Aljassem; Djaniny
Al Ahli predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Mendy (GK); Ali Majrashi, Demirai, Ibanez, Alhurayji; Aljohani, Kessie; Mahrez, Firmino, Veiga; Darisi
Match prediction for Al Fateh vs Al Ahli
Al Ahli are determined to leave an indelible mark in the Saudi top division this season. They won their opening game of the new season comfortably while Al Fateh faced a humiliating defeat against Al Qadisiyah. We expect Al Ahli to get the better of Al Fateh by a dominating margin.
Prediction: Al Fateh 1-4 Al Ahli
Telecast for Al Fateh vs Al Ahli
India – Sony LIV, Sony Sports Network
UK – DAZN UK
US – fuboTV, FOX Sports App, FOX Deportes
Nigeria – StarTimes App, Sporty TV
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