Al-Ittihad Vs Al-Ettifaq

​Al Ittihad, the current leaders of the Saudi Pro League, are poised to extend their impressive run as they prepare to face Al Ettifaq at the Al Ettifaq Club Stadium this Saturday afternoon. The visiting team is riding a wave of success, having secured nine consecutive victories across all competitions since late September. In stark contrast, Al Ettifaq enters this fixture amidst a challenging period, having failed to win any of their last eight league matches.​

Under the guidance of manager Laurent Blanc, Al Ittihad has experienced a remarkable transformation this season. The decision to replace Marcelo Gallardo with Blanc has proven fruitful, especially with the integration of star player Karim Benzema. Although their season opener required a late goal from Houssem Aouar to clinch a 1-0 victory over Al Kholood, the team has since demonstrated consistent dominance, winning 11 of their subsequent 12 matches. Their sole defeat came at the hands of Al Hilal, with a 3-1 loss.​

In their most recent outing, Al Ittihad secured a 2-0 win against Al Fateh, thanks to goals from Fabinho and Aouar. This victory has propelled them two points clear at the top of the league table, with approximately a third of the season completed. Having previously clinched the league title within the last five years, Al Ittihad is determined to reclaim their domestic crown after a lackluster defense of their title last season. A win on Saturday would temporarily extend their lead to five points, pending the outcome of Al Hilal's match against an in-form Al Shabab side.​

Al Ettifaq, on the other hand, is grappling with a significant downturn in form. After a promising start with three consecutive wins, they have since suffered five losses and three draws in their last eight league matches. Despite their struggles in the league, Steven Gerrard's squad has performed admirably in the Gulf Club Champions League, winning all three of their group-stage matches to top Group B. However, their primary focus remains on reviving their domestic campaign, as they currently sit 13th in the standings, just three points above the relegation zone, albeit with a game in hand.​

Offensively, Al Ettifaq has faced challenges, managing only nine goals this season, placing them among the lowest-scoring teams in the league. A significant improvement in their attacking prowess is essential if they aim to reverse their fortunes in the domestic league.​

In terms of team news, Al Ittihad is contending with several injuries. Key players such as Jadani, Sharahi, and Hegazy are sidelined with cruciate ligament injuries, while others like Abed, Nashri, and Alolayan are also unavailable. Additionally, Kante, Romarinho, Jamaan, and Farhan are doubtful for the upcoming match due to minor injuries. Conversely, Al Ettifaq has a relatively healthier squad, with Dembele expected to play despite not being fully recovered, and Vitinho remaining out due to a tendon injury.​

Historically, Al Ittihad has held the upper hand in encounters between these two teams. In their last 20 head-to-head matches, Al Ittihad has emerged victorious 12 times, with Al Ettifaq winning four and four matches ending in draws. The most recent meeting saw Al Ettifaq secure a surprising 5-0 victory over Al Ittihad, highlighting the unpredictability of this fixture.​

As both teams prepare for this crucial match, Al Ittihad aims to maintain their momentum and solidify their position at the top of the league, while Al Ettifaq seeks to halt their winless streak and climb away from the relegation zone. The outcome of this encounter could have significant implications for both teams' seasons.​