Al-Hilal vs Al-Ahli: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups
In a crucial round 20 Saudi Pro League match, Al-Hilal will host Al-Ahli. Both teams have importance in the title race, with Al-Hilal looking to bounce back from recent draws. Currently, Al-Hilal sits at the top with 51 points, just three points ahead of Al-Ahli, who occupies third place.
Match Preview
Al-Hilal has not won in their last three matches. They recently drew against Al-Riyadh and Al-Qadsiah, which has allowed their rivals to close in. Despite this dip in form, they remain unbeaten this season.
- Recent Form: 15 wins and 1 draw from 16 home matches.
- Current Points: 51 points in Saudi Pro League.
The ‘Blue Waves’ will be counting on their home advantage. Of their last 16 matches at home, they have won 15. Coach Simone Inzaghi will hope this trend continues as they look to retain their slim lead over their rivals.
Al-Ahli’s Confidence
Al-Ahli enters the match with strong momentum. They boast nine wins in their last ten games across all competitions, losing only once. This impressive run includes a solid away record, securing victories in eight of their last nine matches on the road.
- Best Defense: Al-Ahli has the top defense in the league, conceding only 12 goals.
- Recent Matchup: They held Al-Hilal to a 3-3 draw in the previous fixture.
Team News
For Al-Hilal, Yassine Bounou is expected to start as goalkeeper after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations. The defense will likely include Pablo Marí and Hassan Altambakti, while Marcos Leonardo may return to the lineup alongside Darwin Nunez.
Al-Ahli will miss long-term absentee Abdullah Otayf. Edouard Mendy, returning after the Africa Cup of Nations, is likely to start in goal. English forward Ivan Toney, with 18 goals this season, will spearhead the attack, supported by Enzo Millot and Riyad Mahrez.
Predicted Lineups
| Al-Hilal | Al-Ahli |
|---|---|
| Bounou | Mendy |
| Al Yami | Galeno |
| Tambakti | Ibanez |
| Marí | Hamidou |
| Hernandez | Abdulrahman |
| Kanno | Atangana |
| Neves | Kessie |
| Milinkovic-Savic | Al Johani |
| Al Dawsari | Millot |
| Nunez | Toney |
| Leonardo | Mahrez |
Match Prediction
This matchup is critical for both teams. Given Al-Hilal’s current form, a close match is expected. A final score of 2-2 seems probable, as both teams will fight for crucial points in the title race.
