The stage is set for an explosive showdown in Saudi Arabia as Al-Ittihad FC faces off against Al-Ahli Jeddah at the iconic King Abdullah Sports City on November 8, 2025. With only two points separating these fierce rivals-Al-Ittihad sitting at 11 points in eighth place and Al-Ahli in fifth with 13 points-the stakes couldn't be higher. This match will not just determine bragging rights; it could prove pivotal in shaping the Pro League standings as both teams vie for a position closer to the coveted top spots.
Predicted Lineups
Al-Ittihad FC: GK: Predrag Rajković, DEF: Mario Mitaj, Danilo Pereira, Saad Al-Mousa, Ahmed Al-Julaydan, MID: N'Golo Kanté, Houssem Aouar, Moussa Diaby, Steven Bergwijn, FWD: Karim Benzema. Al-Ahli Jeddah: GK: Edouard Mendy, DEF: Merih Demiral, Roger Ibañez, Ali Majrashi, Mohammed Abdulrahman, MID: Franck Kessié, Matheus Gonçalves, Riyad Mahrez, Enzo Millot, FWD: Ivan Toney.
This clash pits a rapidly evolving powerhouse like Al-Ittihad against a disciplined Al-Ahli side that is yet to taste defeat this season. But let's be clear: this isn't merely about unbeaten records or positions on the table; it's about pride and identity.
The Tactical Landscape
Both squads have displayed contrasting styles leading up to this encounter. Al-Ittihad has showcased their firepower with standout performances-most notably a recent emphatic 3-0 victory over Sharjah FC and a wild 4-4 draw against Al Khaleej Saihat that highlighted their attacking flair but also defensive vulnerabilities. This oscillation between dominance and chaos puts them in a precarious situation heading into this critical matchup.
Conversely, Al-Ahli has been the model of consistency under pressure-four draws showing resilience rather than failure to convert chances into wins. Their methodical style leans heavily on solid ball retention and compact defending; they average possession percentages that often soar above 60%. With offensive talents like Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney among others constantly threatening from all angles-and Toney leading their scoring efforts with five goals-Al-Ahli knows how to grind out results when it matters most.
Looking at match statistics paints an even clearer picture: Al-Ittihad dominated ball possession at around 68% against Sharjah while managing an impressive pass accuracy of 88%. Yet they've conceded numerous goals during transitional phases-a stat that should raise alarms as they prepare to face an equally potent attack like that of Al-Ahli's.
What makes this clash intriguing are the tactical battles across key areas of the pitch. Both sides possess midfield maestros who can dictate play-players like N'Golo Kanté will find himself directly opposed by Kessié's physical presence and technical ability. Which team can assert dominance in midfield will likely control the flow of the game.
Star Players Set for Glory
Eyes will undoubtedly be glued on two marquee players: Karim Benzema, who has exploded onto the scene with an astounding 23 goals in just 30 appearances this season and plays a crucial role for Al-Ittihad's ambitions. His goal-scoring exploits have made him one of football's most lethal finishers; if he finds his rhythm early on against an Ahli defense that is known for its positional discipline but may struggle against quick transitions, expect fireworks.
For Al-Ahli Jeddah, keep your radar focused on Ivan Toney. The striker's combination of speed and strength creates headaches for defenders everywhere-and with five goals already this season alongside his knack for being in the right place at crucial moments (like equalizing late against Riyadh), he holds all the cards going into this encounter.
Then there are rising stars too! For example, Moussa Diaby has impressed mightily as well-with recent performance stats placing him firmly among top performers despite only having four assists to his name thus far. His ability to slice through defenses could very well tip the scales for Ittihad.
Betting Odds Insight
As we gear up for kickoff in what promises to be a thriller under Saudi lights, betting odds reflect slight favoritism toward Al-Ittihad due to home-field advantage and their attacking prowess-expected lines hover around -150 for both teams scoring and over/under 2.5 goals set around -110 given each team's propensity to concede but also unleash potent strikes forward.
Final Prediction:
The ambiance is electric; history suggests tight contests between these teams! Ultimately though? Expect a late-game breakthrough from none other than Karim Benzema who finds space amidst crowding defenders and manages to secure all three points through sheer determination-a goal that sends ripples through Jeddah while cementing Ittihad's path back toward contention after what's been perceived as rocky form early on! My final prediction: Al-Ittihad FC triumphs over Al-Ahli Jeddah with a hard-fought scoreline of 2-1, signaling their resurgence! Mark my words; you'll remember this battle!