Saudi Arabia’s powerhouse Al Hilal will be looking to extend their winning streak when they face UAE side Al Ain in the third round of the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday.
The Riyadh-based team began their continental campaign with a 3-1 win over Qatar’s Al Rayyan. They then thrashed Iraq’s Al Shorta 5-0, topping their group with maximum points, ahead of Al Ahli on goal difference.
Al Hilal’s Strong Domestic Form
Jorge Jesus’s squad is in excellent form, leading the domestic league after winning all seven matches. They have already crowned with their first silverware of the season, claiming the Saudi Super Cup by defeating rivals Al-Nassr.
The upcoming game offers a chance for redemption, as Al Ain ended Al Hilal’s Champions League run last season in the semi-finals. Al Hilal lost 4-2 in the first leg at this venue, and their 2-1 home win wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit.
Al Hilal’s Impressive Scoring Record
After a 3-0 victory over Al Fayha in their domestic league, Al Hilal have scored 33 goals this season. They have netted two or more goals in 10 of their 12 matches.
However, Al Hilal will miss Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou due to injury from international duty. Brazilian star Neymar could be available after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury.
🔹 Neymar participated in the team training ⚽️✅ pic.twitter.com/qajxO9kTpi
— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) October 19, 2024
Al Ain Struggles
Defending champions Al Ain started their Asian campaign with a 1-1 draw against Qatar’s Al Sadd. They then suffered a 4-2 defeat to Al Gharafa, dropping to 10th place in the group.
Domestically, Al Ain have struggled, currently sitting sixth in the UAE Pro League, trailing Sharjah by eight points. Hernan Crespo’s side hopes to build on their recent 4-0 win over Hatta, which secured a quarter-final spot in the President’s Cup.
Head-to-Head History
Al Hilal and Al Ain have met 18 times across all competitions. Al Hilal emerged victorious in nine matches, while Al Ain have claimed seven wins. Two games ended in draws.
Key Players to Watch:
Alejandro Romero (Al Ain)
Romero has been in stellar form for Al Ain, with 11 goal contributions in eight matches. His playmaking skills will be crucial for Al Ain’s chances in this must-win game.
Aleksandar Mitrovic (Al Hilal)
Mitrovic is enjoying a prolific season, scoring 14 goals so far. The Serbian striker is determined to add the AFC Champions League title to his achievements with Al Hilal.
Possible Lineups:
Al Ain: Eisa; Al-Ahbabi, Cardoso, Autonne, Erik; Park, Traore; Sanabria, Palacios, Romero; Rahimi
Al Hilal: Al-Rubaie; Cancelo, Koulibaly, Al Bulaihi, Lodi; Neves, Milinkovic-Savic, Malcolm; Leonardo, Al-Dawsari, Mitrovic
