Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
The 32nd round of the Saudi Arabian Championship will take place on Friday in Al-Hofuf, where the local team Al-Fateh will host Al-Hilal. I’m offering a bet on goals in this clash with an attractive odds.
Match preview
Al-Fateh continues its fight for survival in the Saudi Pro League, hovering near the relegation zone with 33 points. The team is just three points clear of the drop. Despite some improvement in recent matches, their inconsistency, especially at the back, keeps them vulnerable against stronger opponents.
In the previous matchday, Al-Fateh travelled to face Al-Wehda and suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat. That result snapped an impressive six-game unbeaten streak (four wins and two draws). At home, they have six wins and six losses from 15 matches, but notably, four of those victories have come in their last five away games.
On the other hand, Al-Hilal remains one of the most powerful and consistent clubs in the Saudi Pro League. With 68 points, they sit second in the standings, five points ahead of Al-Nassr and six behind league leaders Al-Ittihad. Al-Hilal boasts a formidable attack, having netted 88 goals this season.
In the last round, the "Riyadh Stars" hosted Al-Orubah and cruised to a 4-0 victory. This marked their second consecutive win and third in their last four league matches. On the road, Al-Hilal are unbeaten in four straight, racking up three wins.
Probable lineups
- Al-Fateh: Sappanos, Al Qunaidiri, Al-Julaidan, Al-Dohaim, Denayer, Al Zarie, Al Zaid, Al Anazi, Bendebka, Batna, Al Sharfa
- Al-Hilal: Bono (G), Al-Shahrani Y., Koulibaly K., Al-Tambakti H., Renan Lodi, Neves R., Milinkovic-Savic S., Kanno M., Malcom, Al-Dawsari S. (C), Mitrovic A.
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the first half of the season, Al-Hilal routed their opponents 9-0
- The "Both teams to score" bet has landed in three of the last five matches
- The "Over 2.5 goals" bet has paid out in four of the last five encounters
Prediction
Al-Hilal is renowned for their ball control and rapid attacks — an ideal setup for away games against teams with shaky defenses. Right now, the visitors are clear favorites, and their mission is to showcase their dominance on the pitch. Our bet for this match: "Al-Hilal to win with a -1.0 handicap" at odds of 1.62.
