Defending champions Al-Ittihad will welcome this season’s title challengers Al-Nassr to King Abdullah Sports City for a one-on-one clash on Tuesday, with kickoff slated for 18:00 GMT.
Key Highlights
Al-Nassr has been the closest title challenger this season behind the imperious Al-Hilal. After 16 rounds of fixtures, they have won 12 times, drawn once, and lost thrice.
The three losses and one draw have seen Al-Nassr fall 10 points behind the unbeaten Al-Hilal. However, as the Saudi Pro League enters its second half, Al-Nassr will hope to retain their brilliant form as they bid to apply pressure on Al-Hilal as the run-in approaches.
A win for Al-Nassr, away to Al-Ittihad, will be a statement of intent and will bolster the side’s confidence as they look to bolster their title charge.
Al-Ittihad will look to win a home match against the major rivals in the Saudi Pro League. Given their patchy form, this season and their less-than-impressive showing at the club World Cup, a win over Al-Nassr will be pivotal for their confidence and form domestically.
Injury Report
Neither side has reported significant injury worries in the lead-up to Tuesday’s one-on-one clash.
Team News
This will be a showdown between former Real Madrid teammates Karim Benzema for Al-Ittihad and Cristiano Ronaldo for Al-Nassr. The two sides will depend on their superstar players to be in inspired form to stand a chance of winning.
Prediction
Al-Nassr will win away from home and set themselves up nicely for the second half of the Saudi Pro League.
Disclaimer: This prediction was written before round 18 of the Saudi Pro League.
