Al Hilal VS Al-Ittihad

The top of the Saudi Pro League table is locked in an incredibly tight race after seven matchdays. Host side Al Hilal has racked up 18 points from 7 league fixtures with 6 wins and 1 loss, notching 8 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss across all competitions in their last 10 outings. They own a fearsome attacking edge with a very high goals-per-game average. Their squad is largely intact, with only one right-back sidelined due to a knee injury. Led by Karim Benzema up front, the side’s overall squad value and deep bench are among the very best in the league. Visitors Al Ittihad sit just one point behind on 17 points, still unbeaten this term and hot on the heels of the top spot. They are however dealing with a major injury crisis, with four key midfield and defensive players sidelined, which has severely thinned their backline depth. Their game plan relies on compact, solid defending, before unleashing their elite frontline talents to finish off counter-attack chances. The two sides have traded wins in their recent head-to-head clashes, with no clear long-term dominant side between them.