Al Wasl vs Al Sadd Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds
Dubai gears up to host the first leg of this Round of 16 fixture.
The Round of 16 clash of the AFC Champions League fixtures takes us to Zabeel Stadium in Dubai, where Al Wasl are scheduled to lock horns against Al Sadd.
Al-Wasl FC, currently positioned 6th in the UAE Pro League with seven points, are gearing up for a crucial showdown against the Qatari outfit in the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League. The Zabeel-based side, under the stewardship of Miloš Milošević, showcased commendable performances during the group stage, navigating through a fiercely competitive Group B, which featured heavyweights like Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahly Saudi.
Despite finishing 5th in the group, Al-Wasl have demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline. As they prepare for the upcoming clash, they’ll be keen to capitalize on their home advantage, aiming to secure a decisive lead before turning their focus back to their domestic league campaign.
Al Sadd FC, currently sitting second in the Qatari Stars League, head into their Round of 16 clash in the AFC Champions League with confidence. The Doha-based giants finished just above Al-Wasl FC in the Elite group stage standings, having secured three wins and three draws from their eight matches.
With a crucial away leg ahead, Al Sadd will aim to grab a decisive advantage before returning to Qatar for the home fixture. While victory remains their ultimate goal, even a draw would strengthen their position, allowing them to dictate terms when they host the final leg of this knockout battle.
Kick-Off:
- Location: Dubai, UAE
- Stadium: Zabeel Stadium
- Date: Monday, 3 March 2025
- Kick-Off Time: 11:30 PM IST
- Referee: TBD
- VAR: In Use
Form:
Al Wasl (in all competitions): L-W-L-W-W
Al Sadd (in all competitions): W-W-L-W-L
Players to Watch
Nicolas Gimenez (Al Wasl)
Nicolás Giménez, the 29-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder from San Justo, has steadily built a reputation for his creativity and flair. Beginning his career with Nueva Chicago, he later showcased his talent at Arsenal de Sarandí before making a pivotal move to Al-Wasl in 2023.
Since joining the Zabeel-based club, Giménez has made 57 appearances and netted 11 goals, playing a crucial role in their attacking setup. What adds an intriguing layer to his career is his dual citizenship, having acquired Emirati nationality, Giménez is now eligible to represent the United Arab Emirates national team.
Akram Afif (Al Sadd)
Akram Afif, the Qatari international from Doha, has carved an impressive career trajectory, emerging as one of the finest talents in Qatari football. A product of Al Sadd’s esteemed youth academy, Afif honed his skills with Al-Markhiya before securing a high-profile loan move to Sevilla during his formative years. His senior career saw him don the colors of Villarreal, marking a significant European stint before returning to Al Sadd in 2020. Since rejoining the Doha-based powerhouse, Afif has made 79 appearances, netting an astonishing 63 goals.
On the international stage, Afif has been a cornerstone of the Qatar national team, earning 121 caps and scoring 39 goals. His most recent international strike came against the United Arab Emirates in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup held in Kuwait, further solidifying his reputation as a big-game player. As Al Sadd prepare for their crucial Round of 16 clash in the AFC Champions League, Afif’s creativity and goal-scoring flair will undoubtedly be pivotal in their quest for continental glory.
Match Facts
- Al Wasl have won three out of their last five matches.
- Al Sadd have lost two fixtures in their last five matches.
Betting Tips & Odds
- Tip 1: Al Wasl to win the match
- Tip 2: Caio to be the first scorer
- Tip 3: Al Wasl 2-0 Al Sadd
Injury and Team News
Al Wasl have no injury concerns for the next match.
Al Sadd, on the other hand, will most likely miss the presence of Romain Saiss in the upcoming encounter.
Head-to-Head
Both sides will most likely meet each other for the first time.
Predicted Lineups
Al Wasl Predicted Lineup (4-4-2):
Al Senani (GK); de Almeira, Bouftini, Jeong, Perez; Santos, Surour, Gimenez, Saleh; Caio, dos Santos
Al Sadd Predicted Lineup (5-3-2):
Barsham (GK); Attal, Miguel, Khoukhi, Suhail, Otavio; Tarek, Claudinho, Camara; Mujica, Afif
Match Prediction
Al Wasl are in sublime form, but suffered a recent defeat. Looking at their quest to get back on winning ways and make the most of their home leg before playing the second and the decisive leg, we expect the Emirati outfit to secure an advantage over the Qatari roster.
Prediction: Al Wasl 2-0 Al Sadd
Telecast details
India: Fancode, Sports 18
UK: Triller TV
Egypt – Bein sports
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