Al-Riyadh vs Al-Khaleej Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

Sabri Lamouchi eyes the top-five berth with a win over the Saihat-based outfit.

In the heart of Riyadh, where the timeless splendour of Diriyah’s mudbrick palaces meets the modern elegance of Al Faisaliah Tower, the second fixture of Matchweek 14 of the Saudi Pro League takes us to the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium in Riyadh, where Al-Riyadh are scheduled to lock horns against Al-Khaleej.

Al-Riyadh SC are enjoying a solid run in the Saudi Pro League, currently positioned 7th with 21 points from 13 matches and a balanced goal difference. With two consecutive victories under their belt, they aim to leapfrog Al-Ahly Saudi and Al-Shabab in the standings. Hosting Al-Khaleej, the Saihat-based outfit, offers an excellent opportunity to capitalize on their home advantage and further strengthen their league position.

Under Sabri Lamouchi’s guidance, the team has shown resilience and determination, and the upcoming match presents a chance to extend their winning streak to three. A win would not only bolster their position but also enhance their momentum as they approach the latter stages of the season.

📸 We continue our training 🔝❤️#Riyadh#RiyadhRoshn pic.twitter.com/gKKgSqHICU

— Al-Riyadh Saudi Club (@Alriyadh_EN) January 6, 2025

Al Khaleej, based in Saihat, currently sit 8th in the Saudi Pro League, trailing Al-Riyadh SC by just one position and two points. A victory in the upcoming match could see them leapfrogging their immediate rivals into 7th place. Despite recent inconsistencies, their knack for upsetting top-tier teams has been remarkable, highlighted by their stunning comeback win against Al Hilal. Fabio Martins’ decisive 85th-minute goal in that match exemplified their resilience and ability to capitalize on key moments.

As they prepare to face Al-Riyadh, Al Khaleej will aim to rediscover their winning momentum and replicate the intensity that earned them accolades earlier in the season. The clash promises a competitive showdown, with Al Khaleej keen to solidify their position in the upper half of the league table.

Kick-Off:

Thursday, 09 January 2025, at 08:30 PM IST

Location: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Form:

Al-Riyadh (in all competitions): W-W-D-L-D

Al-Khaleej (in all competitions): L-L-W-W-W

Players to Watch

Bernard Mensah (Al Riyadh)

Bernard Mensah, a 30-year-old Ghanaian attacking midfielder from Accra, has brought significant flair and creativity to Al-Riyadh SC since joining the club in 2024. Formerly associated with clubs like Vitoria Guimarães and Atlético Madrid, Mensah has already scored three goals in 13 matches this season. His impact on the pitch earned him the Saudi Professional League Player of the Month award in November 2023, highlighting his influence in Al-Riyadh’s campaign.

Having represented Ghana five times at the international level, Mensah’s experience and vision make him a pivotal figure for the Riyadh-based side. As they aim to extend their winning streak against Al-Khaleej, Mensah will be tasked with driving the team’s offensive momentum, ensuring their quest for dominance in Saudi football stays on track.

Fabio Martins (Al-Khaleej)

Fabio Martins, the 31-year-old Portuguese winger, has been a crucial figure for Al-Khaleej since joining the club in 2023. With previous stints at prestigious teams like Porto, Braga, and Al-Wahda, Martins brought a wealth of experience and skill to the Saihat-based outfit. In 57 appearances, he has scored 16 goals, solidifying his reputation as a reliable performer. His match-winning goal against Al-Hilal recently showcased his knack for delivering in high-pressure situations, making him a key player in Al-Khaleej’s lineup.

Martins has also had a notable international youth career, contributing significantly to Portugal’s U-19 and U-21 squads. His exceptional performance earned him the Primiera Liga Player of the Month award in September 2019, reflecting his consistency and class. As Al-Khaleej look to climb the Saudi Pro League standings, Martins’ experience and attacking prowess will be pivotal in their upcoming fixtures.

Match Facts

• The home team have nearly 50% win accuracy against Al Khaleej.
• Al-Riyadh have lost one out of their last five matches.
• Al Khaleej have won three fixtures in their last five matches.

Betting Tips & Odds

• Tip 1: Al Khaleej to win the match.
• Tip 2: Bayesh to be the first scorer.
• Tip 3: Al-Riyadh 1-2 Al Khaleej.

Injury and Team News

Al Riyadh will be without the services of Enzo Roco for the upcoming fixture. Ahmed Asiri also picked up a red card in the previous match and will miss the next game.

Al Khaleej, on the other hand, will most likely miss the presence of Abdullah Al-Fahad in the upcoming encounter.

Head-to-Head

Total Matches: 04

Al Riyadh won: 02

Al Khaleej won: 01

Draws: 01

Predicted Lineups

Al Riyadh Predicted Lineup (4-4-2):

Borjan (GK); Hussain Ali, Tambakti, Al Khaibari; Al-Shehri, Kal, Toze, Selemani; Bayesh, Mensah

Al Khaleej Predicted Lineup (4-4-1-1):

Sehic (GK); Al Hamsal, Tisserand, Al-Khabrani, Rebocho; Narey, Hamzi, Kourbelis, Martins; Fortounis; Al Salem

Match Prediction

We expect the home side to break the deadlock, but looking at Al-Khaleej’s recent comeback win over second-placed Al Hilal, the match seems to be slightly tilted in favour of the Saihat-based outfit.

Prediction: Al Riyadh 1-2 Al Khaleej

Telecast details –

India –  Sony LIV, Sony Sports Network

UK – DAZN UK

US –  fuboTV, FOX Sports App, FOX Deportes

Nigeria – StarTimes App, Sporty TV

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.