Al-Najma vs Al-Nassr: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
On Wednesday evening, Al-Najma will face Al-Nassr at Al-Najma Club Stadium in a significant Saudi Pro League match. The contest pits the league’s struggling bottom team against a title contender currently enjoying success.
Match Preview: Al-Najma’s Struggles
Al-Najma has faced intense challenges in the Saudi Pro League since their promotion. They hold the last position in the standings, having accumulated only eight points from 22 matches. Their record features just one win, five draws, and 16 losses.
The team has notably struggled offensively and defensively. They have scored a mere 21 goals while conceding 46, resulting in one of the league’s poorest defensive statistics. Recent performances show little improvement, with only one win in their last five league games, including a 4-1 defeat to Al-Ahli that highlighted their ongoing issues.
Al-Nassr’s Dominance
In sharp contrast, Al-Nassr is having a phenomenal season, sitting at the top of the table with 55 points after 22 matches. They boast 18 wins, one draw, and three losses, along with an impressive goal tally of 57 while conceding only 18.
Their current form is exceptional, with eight consecutive victories across all competitions without allowing a single goal. Their latest match ended in a 4-0 win over Al-Hazem, showcasing both their offensive prowess and defensive organization.
Historical Context
There is minimal recent history between the two teams, with their last encounter occurring in 2003. In that match, Al-Nassr triumphed with a commanding 6-0 scoreline.
Team News and Lineups
For Al-Najma, Felippe Cardoso is suspended due to a red card, and Mohammed Al-Kunaydiri remains out with a long-term injury. Hisham Al-Dubais is set to lead the attack in Cardoso’s absence, supported by Lazaro. The defensive lineup is likely to include Nasser Al-Haleel, Abdullah Al-Hawsawi, Samir Caetano, and Khalid Al-Subaie.
Al-Nassr has some injury concerns with Saad Haqawi and Sami Al-Najei both doubtful. Despite these issues, Marcelo Brozovic and Angelo Gabriel are expected to bolster the midfield. Forward positions should see Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman support Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix, with Ronaldo having scored two goals in the last match.
Potential Lineups
| Al-Najma | Al-Nassr |
|---|---|
| Braga | Bento |
| Al-Hawsawi | Yahya |
| Al-Haleel | Al-Amri |
| Samir | Simakan |
| Al-Subaie | Al-Ghanam |
| Boutobba, Emad, Guga, Tijanic | Mane, Brozovic, Angelo Gabriel, Coman |
| Lazaro, Al-Dubais | Felix, Ronaldo |
Prediction
With the current disparity in quality and form, Al-Nassr is expected to dominate this matchup. They possess superior attacking talent coupled with solid defense, which challenges an Al-Najma team struggling throughout the season. A comfortable victory for Al-Nassr seems highly probable, with a predicted score of Al-Najma 0, Al-Nassr 3.
