Al-Ahli Jeddah vs Al-Ittihad Jeddah: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – March 6, 2026
One of the marquee fixtures of Saudi Pro League matchday 25 takes place on Friday in Jeddah at the King Abdullah Sports City, where Al-Ahli will host their fierce city rivals in the derby – Al-Ittihad. Let’s break down a bet on the outcome of this clash, which offers excellent winning potential.
- See also: Al-Hilal Riyadh vs Al-Najma Unaizah: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – March 6, 2026
Match preview
Al-Ahli are enjoying one of their strongest spells of the season, closing in on the summit of the table. Matthias Jaissle’s men are unbeaten in 16 straight games and have won 13 of their last 14 league matches, dropping points only in a goalless draw with Al-Hilal. In the previous round, the "Trophy Fortress" edged Al-Riyadh 1-0, keeping up the chase for the top spot.
The team’s main trump card remains their defense – just 15 goals conceded in 24 rounds, the best record in the Pro League. In attack, much depends on Ivan Toney and Riyad Mahrez, though the Algerian missed the last match and the Englishman’s scoring form has dipped slightly. Frank Kessié and center-back Roger Ibañez, who is a constant threat on set pieces, play key roles in building attacks.
Al-Ittihad’s season has been far less dazzling than the last, when they claimed the championship title. Now, the "Tigers" are well off the pace: after 24 rounds, they trail the leaders by 19 points, and their hopes of qualifying for the elite Asian Champions League look slim at best.
Sérgio Conceição’s side are unbeaten in six matches, but their performances have raised questions. In recent rounds, Al-Ittihad barely edged Al-Feiha 2-1 and were held to a 1-1 draw by Al-Hazem, while their attack has looked noticeably weaker since Karim Benzema’s departure – newcomers Ilenikhena and En-Nesyri have yet to live up to expectations, though midfielder Mahamadu Doumbia continues to provide service to his teammates.
Probable lineups
- Al-Ahli Jeddah: Mendy, Al-Khawsawi, Ibañez, Demiral, Majrashi, Kessié, Edoa, Miyo, Galeno, Toney, Mahrez.
- Al-Ittihad Jeddah: Rajković, Al-Shanqiti, Pereira, Sharakhili, Mitai, Doumbia, Fabinho, Diaby, Aouar, Bergwijn, En-Nesyri.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Al-Ahli have won 13 of their last 14 league matches, dropping points only against Al-Hilal (0-0).
- Al-Ittihad are unbeaten in six straight games, but have only managed two wins in that span.
- Four of the last five head-to-head meetings between these sides have produced fewer than two goals.
Prediction
Al-Ahli head into the derby in superb form and look like one of the most balanced teams in the league. Their rock-solid defense and consistent results make Jaissle’s squad a serious title contender. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, are going through a transitional phase after losing their attacking leaders and have yet to find stability up front. The visitors can put up a fight in the derby, but on current form, the advantage should stay with the hosts.
