Al Kholood vs Al-Hilal: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview
In an upcoming clash on Wednesday, Al-Hilal will seek to extend their remarkable winning streak to 16 games in all competitions. They will face Al Kholood in the Saudi Pro League, where Al-Hilal currently sits second with 26 points, just four points adrift of table leaders Al-Nassr. In contrast, Al Kholood holds the 13th position with only nine points.
Match Preview
Al Kholood has struggled this season, amassing three wins and seven losses in their ten league outings. Their last league victory dates back to mid-October, and they suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Al-Taawon in their recent match. As a result, they are now just three points above the relegation zone.
- Al Kholood’s League Record: 3 Wins, 7 Losses
- Total Points: 9
- Last 5 Matches: LLLLL
Despite their King’s Cup win against Al Khaleej at the end of November, Al Kholood’s defensive issues are evident, having conceded 19 goals in ten matches. Their recent performance has raised concerns about their ability to secure safety in the league.
Al-Hilal’s Dominance
Al-Hilal comes into this fixture full of confidence, riding a wave of 15 consecutive victories across all competitions. They managed a narrow 3-2 win over Al Khaleej in their last league encounter. Under manager Simone Inzaghi, Al-Hilal’s record stands at eight wins and two draws from ten league games played this season.
- Al-Hilal’s League Record: 8 Wins, 2 Draws
- Total Points: 26
- Last 5 Matches: WWWWWW
After finishing second last season, Al-Hilal aims for their 20th league title. They remain focused on keeping pace with Al-Nassr, who have been untouchable so far this term.
Team News
Al Kholood will miss key player Abdulmalik Al-Harbi due to injury. However, they will depend on Ramiro Enrique, who has scored eight goals this season, and John Buckley, a former Blackburn Rovers midfielder.
For Al-Hilal, goalkeeper Bono is unavailable due to international commitments. Mohammed Al Rubaie will take his place. Marcos Leonardo, who has netted 11 goals this season, is poised to lead the attack alongside Malcom, despite speculation surrounding teammate Ruben Neves’ future.
Potential Lineups
| Al Kholood | Al-Hilal |
|---|---|
| Cozzani | Al Rubaie |
| Gyomber | Al Yami |
| Troost-Ekong | Akcicek |
| Pinas | Tambakti |
| Al Shehri | Hernandez |
| Al Aliwa | Kanno |
| Al Dawsari | Neves |
| Buckley | Milinkovic-Savic |
| Sawan | Al Dawsari |
| Enrique | Leonardo |
| Bahebri | Malcom |
Based on the current form of both teams, Al-Hilal is the favorite to win this encounter. Al Kholood may secure a goal, but predictions lean towards a 3-1 victory for Al-Hilal.