Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the matches of the 33rd round of the Saudi Pro League will take place on Thursday in Jeddah, where local side Al-Ahli will host Al-Ettifaq. I suggest a bet on the outcome of this clash with an excellent set of odds.
Match preview
Al-Ahli are confidently finishing in the upper echelons of the table, showcasing a solid level of play both in attack and defense. The team has collected 64 points with 20 wins this season, conceding only 33 goals — a testament to their well-organized structure. Their formidable home form stands out in particular: 11 wins in 16 home games and just two losses — a compelling argument in favor of the hosts.
Under Matthias' guidance, Al-Ahli play vibrant, attacking football, as evidenced by their recent 4-1 victory over Al-Kholood. The squad makes excellent use of the wings and isn't shy about pressing high, forcing opponents into mistakes when building from the back. This style is especially effective against teams with less stable defenses, like Al-Ettifaq.
Al-Ettifaq have had a mixed season: 44 points, 12 wins, and 12 losses — consistency has clearly been lacking. The team sits seventh, with a negative goal difference (39 scored, 43 conceded), highlighting their defensive struggles, particularly against teams that like to dictate the tempo. While they've looked energetic on the road (7 away wins), overall stability remains elusive.
In their last five matches, Al-Ettifaq have alternated wins with defeats, and a recent goalless draw with Damac underscored their lack of attacking creativity. The cautious tactics employed by the coaching staff help avoid collapses but prevent the team from taking control of matches. Such a strategy may not work against a powerful and aggressive Al-Ahli.
Probable lineups
- Al-Ahli: Al-Sanbi A., Majrashi A., Demiral M., Ibañez, Dams M., Alexander, Veiga G., Mahrez R., Al-Buraikan F., Al-Johani Z., Toney I
- Al-Ettifaq: Rodak M., Abdulrahman M., Khatib A. A., Madou A., Al-Otaibi R., Escobar J., Medran A., Vitinho, Wijnaldum G., Gray D., Radif A
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the first round, Al-Ahli defeated their opponent away with a score of 2-1
- The "Both teams to score" bet landed in two out of the last five matches
- The "Over 2.5 goals" bet came through in three of the last five encounters
Prediction
Given Al-Ahli's excellent form and their dominance at home, the hosts are clear favorites for this fixture. Al-Ettifaq are far from reliable at the back, and their lack of attacking edge makes them vulnerable against high-caliber opposition. Our pick: "Al-Ahli to win with a -1.0 handicap" at odds of 1.69.
