An intense football encounter is on the horizon as Al-Nassr journey to Najran for a Saudi Pro League faceoff with Al Okhdood.
The match will take place at the Prince Hathloul Bin Abdul Aziz Sport City Stadium as the day winds to a close.
Al Okhdood is fighting to stay above the relegation line, while Al-Nassr plays to stoke the dying embers of a title race just a little longer.
Match Preview
Having recently earned promotion to the Saudi Pro League, Al Okhdood’s main objective this season would have been to secure their spot in the top flight. However, they are still in a precarious position.
After a tough stretch of seven winless games, including six losses and a draw, the club decided to part ways with Martin Sevela on April 17 after just 14 matches in charge. Noureddine Zekri took over as the new manager.
Zekri started with a loss against his former club but quickly followed it up with a crucial win against Abha.
This victory gave the team a slight cushion above the relegation zone. However, they need to be cautious as another loss could see them drop to second-last in the table.
On the other hand, Al-Nassr secured their qualification for the AFC Champions League next season but their title hopes have dwindled after Al Hilal’s victory. With just a few games left, Al Hilal could secure the title this week.
Team News & Updates
Al Okhdood will be missing centre-back Andrei Burca due to injury. Solomon Kvirkvelia is expected to fill in for him.
Al Nassr will be without manager Luis Castro, who is recovering from surgery. Several players will be absent due to injuries and suspensions.
Prediction and Analysis
Based on past performances, it appears Al Nassr, despite being short of some of their key members, are expected to be the heavyweights in this faceoff.
While Al Okhdood has demonstrated a knack for winning on home turf, playing against Al Nassr might be an uphill task.
The league title might be within Al Hilal’s grasp, but we predict Al Nassr will stretch the suspense by claiming a triumph in this match-up.
- Al Okhdood 1-2 Al-Nassr