Al Hilal Faces Tough Challenge Against Al Ahli in Saudi Pro League Clash

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Defending champion Al Hilal is set to face Al Ahli on Friday, February 28, 2025, in a crucial Saudi Pro League match at the Kingdom Arena. Despite a disappointing season so far, Al Hilal is aiming to close the gap in the title race after a recent 5-1 victory over Al Kholood.

This weekend’s kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM (UK time), 2:00 PM (US ET), and 11:00 AM (US PT). Fans can catch the match on DAZN in the UK and on Fox in the US, with streaming available on their respective digital platforms.

Injuries remain a concern for Al Hilal as they adapt their lineup. Former Manchester City right-back Joao Cancelo and Renan Lodi, a seasoned left-back, are both unavailable due to injury. Coach Jorge Jesus has shifted to a 4-2-3-1 formation, which is projected to include goalkeeper Bono; defenders Aldawsari, Koulibaly, Al Bulaihi, Al Harbi; midfielders Neves and Milinkovic-Savic; and forwards Kaio, Malcom, Al Dawsari, and Marcos Leonardo.

“We need to build on our last performance and regain momentum,” Jesus stated at a news conference on Wednesday. “Every game counts as we pursue the title.”

Al Ahli, currently sitting fifth in the league standings, is also dealing with injury issues. The visitors will be without defensive midfielders Alexsander and Abdullah Otayf as they seek their first victory over Al Hilal since 2020. Their predicted 3-4-2-1 formation will feature goalkeeper Mendy; defenders Bakor, Roger Ibanez, and Dams; midfielders Ali Majrashi, Kessie, Aljohani, and Galeno; along with forwards Al Buraikan, Gabri Veiga, and Toney.

Head coach Matthias Jaissle remains confident in his squad. “We have a solid strategy and strong players ready to compete,” said Jaissle. “We’re looking forward to this big match.”

Al Hilal’s recent performance shows a mixture of hope and concern. After starting strong this season, with 43 points from their first 16 matches, the club fell to back-to-back draws and a recent defeat against league leaders Al Ittihad. However, their decisive win against Al Kholood injected fresh confidence into the squad.

On the other side, Al Ahli is coming off a stellar 4-1 win against Al Qadsiah, a match in which Ivan Toney scored two goals. With six wins in their last seven matches, Al Ahli’s solid form places them in a competitive position.

Despite facing injury setbacks, both teams are eager for victory. Al Hilal hopes to maintain their impressive home record, while Al Ahli eyes an upset as they look to break their winless streak against the champions. The past eight meetings between these two clubs have favored Al Hilal, with the champions winning six and drawing two.

As the match approaches, the anticipation grows around the Kingdom Arena. Expectations are high for an entertaining clash that could see goals from both sides as they battle for crucial points in the Saudi Pro League.