The State of The Saudi Pro League Ahead of Matchday 25
After the international break, we’ll be back in action in the Saudi Pro League this weekend for matchday 25. There are key battles across the board, with Al Hilal looking to achieve an invincible season and at least six teams battling to avoid relegation.
Al Hilal is firmly in control with its unbeaten season, putting it 12 points clear of the nearest challenger, Al Nassr. With their 9th Saudi Pro League title in sight, the leaders will be keen to hold onto their lead.
Al Nassr looks set to finish in second place two years in a row after dropping points recently, effectively ending the title race. In December, they lost 3-0 to leaders Al Hilal but rebounded with a six-match winning streak. On match week 22, they faltered with a 4-4 draw against Al Hazem, then lost 3-1 to Al Raed. The team proved that it relied too much on individuals, and the losses coincided with the loss of Anderson Talisca through injury. Al Nassr will look for a perfect run and hopes that Al Hilal stumbles.
At the bottom of the table, Al Hazem looks certain to get relegated, having garnered only 15 points in 24 matches. Al Tai (22) and Abha (21) are also in danger but can potentially get out of the relegation zone if they can make a few wins.
Al Raed Al Okhdood and Al Riyadh are all tied at 24 points and will be aware that any faltering may drag them into the relegation zone as we get back to action in the Saudi Pro League; it’s bound to be an interesting one.
