Jeddah giants Al Ittihad are set to host city rivals Al Ahli in the Sea Derby at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Thursday, seeking to continue their impressive form in the Saudi Pro League’s ninth round.
Al Ittihad’s Winning Streak in Focus
Al Ittihad enter the derby on a high, riding a six-game winning streak across the Saudi Pro League and King’s Cup competitions. Under the guidance of coach Laurent Blanc, the “Yellow Tigers” sit second in the league standings, trailing leaders Al Hilal by three points with 21 points from eight matches. Leading Al Ittihad’s charge is French forward Karim Benzema, who has already netted eight goals this season, supported by high-profile players like Fabinho, N’Golo Kante, and Moussa Diaby.
Al Ittihad’s recent victories, including a 1-0 league win over Al Riyadh and a 2-0 triumph over Al Jandal in the King’s Cup, have solidified their status as title contenders. Blanc’s tactical approach has been pivotal, enhancing the squad’s consistency and ambition.
Al Ahli’s Struggles for Consistency
Al Ahli, meanwhile, have faced a less consistent season, currently standing in eighth place with 11 points from eight games. Coach Matthias Jaissle’s team has yet to find a stable rhythm domestically, though they remain unbeaten in their AFC Champions League group. Star player Riyad Mahrez, eager to regain his early-season form, recently scored in a 1-1 draw against Al Okhdood. Alongside Mahrez, Ivan Toney—who has contributed three goals and two assists—provides a threat in the attack.
Despite defensive issues, Al Ahli hope to disrupt Al Ittihad’s winning run, counting on the firepower of Mahrez and Toney.
Head-to-Head: A Fierce Rivalry
Historically, this rivalry is closely contested. Al Ahli hold a slight advantage with 72 wins, while Al Ittihad have recorded 60 victories, and 57 encounters have ended in a draw. In their most recent meeting in April 2024, Al Ahli edged Al Ittihad with a narrow 1-0 victory. However, recent form favors Al Ittihad, who appear stronger heading into this fixture.
Injury Updates and Predicted Lineups
Al Ittihad are dealing with several injuries, notably Ahmed Bamsaud, Ahmed Mohammed Sharahili, and Danilo Pereira. Al Ahli are without goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Predicted Lineups:
Al Ittihad: Rajkovic; Al Amri, Al-Mousa, Shanqeeti, Mitaj; Fabinho, Kante, Diaby; Aouar, Bergwijn, Benzema
Al Ahli: Al-Sanbi; Hamed, Demiral, Ibanez, Al Ammar; Kessie, Aljohani; Mahrez, Veiga, Firmino, Toney
With high stakes and an intense rivalry, this Sea Derby promises an electrifying showdown, captivating fans across the globe.
