Preview: Al Hilal Look to Extend Winning Start Against Al Shorta in AFC Champions League Elite
Saudi powerhouse Al Hilal are set to host Iraqi side Al Shorta in their second match of the AFC Champions League Elite at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium on Tuesday. The Saudi champions are eager to maintain their winning streak after defeating Al Rayyan 3-1 in their opener. Goals from Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Joao Cancelo, and Marcos Leonardo secured a commanding first-half lead, with Roger Guedes’ goal for Al Rayyan proving inconsequential.
🎥 In our first Champions League game this season… Cancelo went BOOM 🤩💙
pic.twitter.com/lthpKzE8bz— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) October 1, 2024
Al Hilal’s Stellar Form
Jorge Jesus’ side comes into this match riding high on an eight-game winning streak across all competitions. They have achieved 3-1 and 4-2 victories over Al Ittihad and Al Kholood, respectively, and a narrow 1-0 win over Al Bukayriyah in the King Cup. These results underline Al Hilal’s determination to build on last season’s success. Their impressive squad, bolstered by new signings Joao Cancelo and Marcos Leonardo, has made them strong contenders to lift the AFC Champions League Elite trophy. Their attacking prowess, coupled with a solid defense, and exceptional goalkeeper, makes them a formidable opponent for any team.
Al Shorta’s Tough Task
On the other hand, Al Shorta will be facing a significant challenge in Saudi Arabia. The Iraqi champions managed a 1-1 draw against Al Nassr in their opening match, with Mohammed Dawood Yaseen scoring the equalizer. However, the team’s record away from home in the AFC Champions League is concerning, with only two wins in 15 matches. They have also struggled defensively, conceding 26 goals, nine of which were against Saudi teams.
Consequently, facing Al Hilal, a team known for their dominance and attacking flair, will be a completely different challenge. Al Shorta will need to play a disciplined and tactical game to stand a chance against the Saudi giants.
This will be the first meeting between both sides in the competition in two decades, with Al Hilal winning both matches in their 2004 encounters
Aiming for Glory
Al Hilal are determined to lift the AFC Champions League Elite trophy after being denied by Al Ain in the semi-finals last season. The four-time Asian champions are in fine form, leading the Saudi Pro League by three points, and will not underestimate their Iraqi opponents. Al Shorta, despite their defensive struggles, will look to put up a fight as they brace for a tough battle in Riyadh.
