Al-Ittihad vs Al-Okhdood prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - January 26, 2026
Al Akhdoud
One of the fixtures of the 18th round of the Saudi Pro League will take place on Monday at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, where Al-Ittihad hosts Al-Okhdood. I suggest a bet on the outcome of this clash, which carries solid chances for success.
Match preview
Al-Ittihad are enduring a highly inconsistent season: after being crowned champions last year, the team has slipped to seventh place in the standings. The managerial change at the start of the campaign failed to deliver the expected results—under Sergio Conceição, the club has managed only eight wins in 16 rounds and suffered five defeats. Nevertheless, from November to January, the side showed a surge in form, stringing together six consecutive wins across all competitions. However, they have now hit another slump, with a draw and two losses in their last three outings.
The issue of finishing and converting chances is particularly acute, despite the presence of big names like Benzema and Aouar. Facing one of the league's strugglers is the perfect opportunity to snap their winless streak and restore confidence. Given the gulf in class, Al-Ittihad simply must secure all three points against a side that has been fighting for survival for years.
The club from Najran continues to cling to life in the top flight but finds itself in the relegation zone for the third season running, relying heavily on results at the season's tail end. Since the arrival of coach Marius Șumudică, Al-Okhdood have shown slight improvement, picking up four points in four matches—nearly half of their season's total. But there are still no clear systemic improvements: the defense remains chaotic, and the attack depends largely on individual brilliance.
A red card in the last round and personnel shortages make the task even tougher against one of the country's most decorated clubs. Al-Okhdood have never beaten Al-Ittihad since their promotion to the Pro League, and with their poor away record, their chances of taking points at King Abdullah are minimal.
Probable lineups
- Al-Ittihad: Rajković, Pereira, Fabinho, Kadesh, Al-Julaidan, Kanté, Doumbia, Al-Ghamdi, Diaby, Benzema, Aouar
- Al-Okhdood: Samuel, Abd, Asseri, Günter, Al-Rabii, Al-Salem, Bassogog, Petros, Gül, Pedroza, Kramer
Match facts and head-to-head
- Al-Ittihad have not lost to Al-Okhdood since the visitors' promotion to the top flight—five matches, five wins.
- Al-Okhdood have lost 11 of their 16 matches this season and average less than one goal per game.
- Al-Ittihad have won seven of their last ten home games across all competitions.
Prediction
Despite their recent poor run, Al-Ittihad remain clear favorites. The squad is stronger, they're motivated to get back in the Champions League race, and they're playing at home. Al-Okhdood will be forced to defend deep, but their defensive organization is lacking. Expect a confident home win by a margin of two or three goals.
