NEOM SC vs Al-Hilal: Match Preview, Predictions, and Team Lineups
In an upcoming Saudi Pro League clash, mid-table Neom SC will face league leaders Al Hilal at King Khalid Sports City. Scheduled for Sunday, this match marks a critical point for both teams, with Neom seeking their second victory of 2026 and Al Hilal aiming to solidify their lead at the top of the standings.
Match Preview: NEOM SC vs Al-Hilal
Neom SC enters this matchup following two consecutive losses and is determined to avoid a third defeat. Currently in 10th place with 20 points from 14 matches, Christophe Galtier’s side faces significant challenges, particularly defensively. The team has not kept a clean sheet in their last 12 games, conceding a total of 23 goals in the league, one of the poorer records in the division.
At home, Neom has struggled, winning just one of their last six fixtures, which includes four losses and a draw. The home crowd will be anxious as they hope for a turnaround in fortunes against a formidable opponent.
Al Hilal’s Dominance
On the other side, Al Hilal has been in superb form and aims for their 20th consecutive victory. The team has excelled away from home, winning 10 consecutive matches, and could make it 11 with a win on Sunday. They boast a potent attack, netting 38 goals in 14 league games, ranking just behind Al Nassr. Defensively, Al Hilal has been impressive as well, conceding only 13 goals this season.
With a seven-point lead over second-placed Al Nassr, coach Simone Inzaghi’s team is keen to extend that gap to maintain their title challenge.
Team Lineups and News
Neom SC will contend with some injury setbacks, including goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, who is recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament issue. Midfielder Abbas Al Hassan is also sidelined and expected to be out until August.
For Al Hilal, they will miss defender Kalidou Koulibaly, currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal. Marcos Leonardo, the team’s leading scorer with seven goals, may start from the bench after being a substitute against Al Nassr. Key attackers Ruben Neves and Darwin Nunez, with six goals each, will be crucial for Al Hilal’s success.
Predicted Lineups
| NEOM SC | Al-Hilal |
|---|---|
| Maximiano | Al Rubaie |
| Abdi | Tambakti |
| Zeze | Neves |
| Hegazy | Al Harbi |
| Al Dawsari | Al Yami |
| Benrahma | Milinkovic-Savic |
| Al Asmari | N. Al Dawsari |
| Kone | Hernandez |
| Rodriguez | Malcom |
| Bouabre | Nunez |
| Lacazette | S. Al Dawsari |
Match Prediction
Given their current form and strong squad, Al Hilal is favored to win this encounter. With star player Nunez likely causing problems for Neom’s defense, predictions suggest a scoreline of 3-0 in favor of Al Hilal.
