Excitement surrounds the clash between Al Ittihad and Al Nassr FC, set to take place on December 6, 2024. This fixture is a key highlight of Round 13 in the Saudi Pro League. Both teams have been in excellent form. Al Ittihad tops the league standings, boasting 11 wins out of 12 matches. All eyes will be on Karim Benzema, Al Ittihad’s star player. He’s scored 9 goals so far, matching the tally of Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo, who is a major player for his team.
This game is more than just a battle between two-star players. Al Nassr FC stands third in the league, eager to close the gap on their rivals. History shows this matchup is always intense, as Al Nassr has managed impressive results against Al Ittihad in past encounters. The weather forecast for Jeddah predicts clear skies, making for perfect match conditions. With title race implications, this showdown promises to be a thrilling part of the Saudi Pro League season.
Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC Prediction & Betting Tip
Al Ittihad has turned their home ground into a fortress, consistently winning. The upcoming game against Al Nassr is crucial, given both teams’ standings near the top of the league. Predictions slightly favor Al Nassr due to better betting odds. Yet, Al Ittihad’s great form at home shouldn’t be ignored. We recommend betting on a win for Al Ittihad. Considering their current momentum and stellar home performances, it’s wise to back them even if it’s expected to be a tight match.
| Recommended Bet | Odds |
|---|---|
| Al Ittihad to win | 2.71 |
Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC Odds
Al Nassr is slightly favored by the odds in this matchup, highlighting the expected competitiveness. Al Ittihad’s odds to win at home are 2.71, showing they have a chance on their turf. For those thinking about a draw, the odds are 3.40, indicating a potentially close game. The odds of 1.58 for over 2.5 goals suggest we might see a high-scoring match, given both teams’ attacking strength. These odds reflect the anticipation for a thrilling game as both sides aim to bring their best.
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Home Win | 2.71 |
| Draw | 3.40 |
| Away Win | 2.37 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 1.58 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 2.24 |
| Both Teams to Score (Yes) | 1.48 |
| Both Teams to Score (No) | 2.45 |
Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC Live Streaming
The Saudi Pro League broadcast in India is with the Sony Sports Network. The SonyLiv Website and App have the live streaming rights. Fans can watch Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC live streaming on SonyLiv at 10:30 PM on Friday.
Al Ittihad Team Analysis
Al Ittihad Recent Performance
Al Ittihad is on a fantastic run, having won their last five games. They’ve scored 10 goals without conceding any, showing their strength at both ends of the pitch. This excellent form puts them on top of the table, guided by coach Laurent Blanc. Their latest success was a 4-0 win against Al-Ettifaq, underscoring their dominance.
| Result | Score |
|---|---|
| Al-Ettifaq vs Al Ittihad | 0-4 |
| Al Ittihad vs Al Fateh FC | 2-0 |
| Al-Orobah FC vs Al Ittihad | 0-2 |
| Al Ittihad vs Al Ahli | 1-0 |
| Al Ittihad vs Al-Jandal | 2-0 |
Al Ittihad Key Players
Karim Benzema leads Al Ittihad’s charge, his goal-scoring critical to their efforts. In midfield, Ngolo Kante and Fabinho bring experience and solidity, essential for controlling the game and protecting the defense. Goalkeeper Predrag Rajković’s skill between the posts has been vital, keeping opponents at bay with multiple clean sheets. Under Laurent Blanc’s strategic guidance, players like Steven Bergwijn and Houssem Aouar use the flanks well, creating opportunities and stretching defenses.
Al Ittihad Suspensions & Injuries
Preparation for this high-stakes match faces challenges with player fitness concerns. Ahmed Sharahili and Ahmed Bamsaud, both recovering from cruciate ligament injuries, remain doubtful. Luiz Felipe’s return is uncertain due to a muscle issue, complicating defensive arrangements. In attack, Moussa Diaby and Abdulaziz Al-Bishi are sidelined, limiting options upfront. The coaching staff will also assess the fitness of Abduleallah Hawsawi and Steven Bergwijn, both dealing with discomforts that make them game-day decisions.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Ahmed Sharahili | Cruciate ligament, Doubtful | – |
| Ahmed Bamsaud | Cruciate ligament, Back training | – |
| Luiz Felipe | Muscle injury | Unknown |
| Abdulaziz Al-Bishi | Muscle injury | Late December 2024 |
| Moussa Diaby | Foot injury | Late January 2025 |
| Abduleallah Hawsawi | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
| Steven Bergwijn | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
Al Ittihad Tactics and Formation
Laurent Blanc is expected to focus on a b midfield with Kante and Fabinho pairing as defensive shields. This approach ensures defensive stability while allowing quick shifts to attack. Benzema’s role up front is crucial, with Aouar aiding in advanced midfield to spark creativity. If fit, Bergwijn and Hawsawi provide width and pace, key to testing Al Nassr’s defense. This plan focuses on ball control and rapid counters, strategies that have brought them success.
Al Nassr FC Team Analysis
Al Nassr FC Recent Performance
Al Nassr has shown flashes of brilliance paired with occasional struggles. They’ve won two out of their last five matches, proving capable in scoring and defending, especially notable in their 2-0 win over Damac FC. However, lapses such as a recent 2-1 loss to Al-Sadd in the AFC Champions League highlight areas needing work. Despite challenges, Al Nassr remains a tough competitor, buoyed by Cristiano Ronaldo’s dual role as a scorer and playmaker.
| Result | Score |
|---|---|
| Al Nassr FC vs Al-Sadd | 1-2 |
| Al Nassr FC vs Damac FC | 2-0 |
| Al-Gharafa vs Al Nassr FC | 1-3 |
| Al Nassr FC vs Al Qadasiya | 1-2 |
| Al Riyadh vs Al Nassr FC | 0-1 |
Al Nassr FC Key Players
Cristiano Ronaldo is central to Al Nassr’s strategy, his eye for goals invaluable. Sadio Mané adds depth and dynamism to the attack from the wings. In midfield, Marcelo Brozovic balances defense and offense. Defensively, Sultan Al-Ghannam and Mohamed Simakan need to stay solid against threats. Otávio’s creativity on the flanks and Talisca’s versatile attacking roles offer further tactical options. Bento, as the last line of defense, has a pivotal role in keeping the net clean.
Al Nassr FC Suspensions & Injuries
Al Nassr confronts injury challenges with players in recovery. Sami Al-Najei’s nearing return from a knee injury is a boost to midfield options. Yet Ayman Yahya and Mukhtar Ali, out until mid-December, limit strategic flexibility. Team strategies must adapt to these shortages, integrating tactical changes to cover for these key absences.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Sami Al-Najei | Knee injury | Few days |
| Ayman Yahya | Leg injury | Mid December 2024 |
| Mukhtar Ali | Muscle injury | Mid December 2024 |
Al Nassr FC Tactics and Formation
Coach Stefano Pioli might opt for a balanced formation, offering defensive strength while supporting offensive threats. Ronaldo might play more centrally, with Brozovic and Al-Khaibari providing defensive covers in the midfield. Central defenders Simakan and Al Fatil will play crucial roles, especially against aerial threats from Al Ittihad. Mané’s role is crucial in exploring openings down the flanks. Pioli plans for rigorous pressing to regain ball control, aiming to unsettle Al Ittihad’s flow.
Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC Head-to-Head Statistics
The history between these teams is full of closely contested matches, often filled with goals. Al Nassr’s recent 4-2 win in May 2024 is a testament to their ability to best Al Ittihad when it matters. While Al Ittihad has also claimed victories in past seasons, this illustrates both teams’ competitiveness. Each clash tells a story of fluctuating fortunes, with both sides achieving notable successes at different times.
| Fixture | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Al Ittihad – Al Nassr FC | 2 – 4 | Saudi Pro League (May 27) |
| Al Ittihad – Al Nassr FC | 2 – 5 | Saudi Pro League |
| Al Nassr FC – Al Ittihad | 0 – 1 | Saudi Professional League |
| Al Ittihad – Al Nassr FC | 3 – 1 | Super Cup |
| Al Ittihad – Al Nassr FC | 0 – 0 | Saudi Professional League |
Venue and Weather
The match will be held in Jeddah, a familiar setting for Al Ittihad with the home crowd on their side. The weather forecast predicts clear skies with a comfortable temperature of 27.21°C, ideal for a football match. A moderate wind of 5.35 m/s won’t affect the match significantly, allowing both teams to focus on their strategies. These favorable conditions mean the match will be a true test of skills and tactics, promising an exciting spectacle for the fans.
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