Al-Hilal vs Al-Ittihad: Heavyweight Showdown Set for Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena

Next Friday, the Kingdom Arena stadium in Riyadh will set the stage for a high-stakes clash between Al-Hilal, the league leaders with 59 points, and Al-Ittihad, currently in fifth place with 37 points, in the Saudi Professional League’s 22nd round. Despite the point difference, anticipation for this match remains high, as it kicks off a trio of encounters between the two teams within a month, including two legs of the AFC Champions League quarter-finals.

As Al-Hilal basks in a record-breaking fourteen consecutive league victories, the absence of Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic due to yellow card accumulation might test their resolve. On the opposing side, Al-Ittihad, despite lagging behind in the standings, shows signs of improvement with recent wins, giving fans hope for an upset, fueled by top scorers Abdel Razzaq Hamdallah and Karim Benzema.

Al-Nasr aims to continue its winning streak against Al-Hazm, hoping to inch closer to Al-Hilal. Cololmbian goalkeeper David Ospina’s return from injury bolsters Al-Nasr’s odds. Al-Hazm, on the other hand, seeks to end their winless run and climb from the lower rungs of the league table.

Elsewhere in the league, Al-Ahly faces a tough challenge from Al-Fateh, currently in third place, showcasing talents like Franck Kessier, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino. Al-Fateh, led by coach Slaven Bilic and aided by striker Murad Batna, poses a formidable obstacle to Al-Ahly’s aspirations.

The round also features matches between Al-Wahda and Al-Taawoun, Al-Raed against Al-Fayhaa, Abha versus Al-Taei, and Al-Akhdood taking on Al-Riyadh, with the stage concluding with Al-Khaleej against Al-Shabab and Damak facing Al-Ettifaq on Saturday. As the league action intensifies, fans brace for thrilling encounters and surprising outcomes.

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Mohamed Suez

Meet Mohamed Suez, a die-hard Al-Hilal fan and one of our passionate contributors. Hailing from the football-mad nation of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed's articles are a heartfelt tribute to the triumphs and tribulations of his beloved club. As an Al-Hilal insider, Mohamed offers readers an intimate look into the fan culture, historic moments, and the unwavering loyalty that defines being a supporter of the "Blue Wave."