Al-Hilal aims to extend their lead in the Saudi Pro League as they travel to face Al Tai at Prince Abdul Aziz Bin Musaed Sports City on Friday evening. The visitors sit comfortably atop the league table, while the hosts are in the 11th position.
Match Preview:
Al Tai, currently placed 11th, has shown signs of improvement lately but faces a stern test against Al-Hilal. Laurentiu Reghecampf’s side has gathered 10 points from their last 15 available, showing improvement after a rough start to the season.
However, their recent record against the league leaders is not encouraging, having suffered three losses and a draw in their last four encounters.
In contrast, Al-Hilal arrives at this fixture on a high note, having secured their 15th consecutive win in all competitions.
They are unbeaten in the league, boasting 13 wins and two draws, with their most recent league victory being a commanding 3-0 win against Al Nassr.
Jorge Jesus’s side has displayed exceptional attacking prowess, scoring an impressive 46 goals this season. Their solid defense, alongside their prolific attack, positions them as strong contenders for the Pro League title.
Al Tai Saudi Pro League form: L W D L W W
Al-Hilal Saudi Pro League form: W W W W W W
Team News:
Al Tai is dealing with defensive injuries as Hussain Qasim and Abdulkarim Al-Sulaiman are expected to remain sidelined with cruciate ligament injuries. Bernard Mensah will continue his attacking role after scoring in his last four appearances.
Al-Hilal faces several injury concerns, with Yassine Bounou being the latest casualty with a muscle injury.
Neymar, Muteb Al Mufarrij, Yasir Al Shahrani, Nasser Al Dawsari, Mohammed Al Owais, Malcom, and Hassan Tambakti are major doubts, while Ali Albulayhi is ineligible after receiving a red card.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Al Tai: (5-4-1)
Al Bagawi;
Mohammed, Al Nakhli, Bauer, Roco, Majrashi;
Asiri, Semedo, Mensah, Al-Moasher;
Al-Haizan
Al-Hilal: (4-5-1)
Alwotayan;
Abdulhamid, Koulibaly, Bulaihi, Al-Berik;
Kanno, Al-Faraj, Michael, Alhamddan, Al-Dawsari;
Shehri
Prediction: Al Tai 0-2 Al-Hilal
Despite Al Tai’s recent improvement, Al-Hilal’s remarkable form and attacking strength make them favorites in this encounter. We predict a comfortable 2-0 win for the visitors.