The Saudi Pro League is heating up as we enter the 24th round, bringing an exciting showdown between Al Nassr FC and Al Shabab at Al-Awwal Park. This fixture is set to be a thrilling encounter, featuring two teams fighting for their league positions with high stakes on the line.
Al Nassr FC, currently sitting in 4th place with 47 points, is eager to climb back into the top three and secure a spot in the AFC Champions League. Meanwhile, Al Shabab, positioned in 6th place with 39 points, aims to close the gap and keep their hopes of a top-four finish alive. Both teams have shown attacking intent throughout the season, making this match a must-watch for football fans and bettors alike.
A major storyline of this clash will be Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact, as the legendary forward has already netted 17 goals this season. Al Nassr will look to capitalize on their home advantage and dominant head-to-head record against Al Shabab. On the other hand, Al Shabab, managed by the experienced Fatih Terim, boasts a potent attack spearheaded by Abderrazak Hamdallah, who has found the net 13 times this season.
Al Nassr FC vs Al Shabab Prediction
Given the attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities of both teams, the recommended betting tip is for both teams to score. The match promises goals, as seen in their previous encounters, with more than 2.5 goals being scored in 78% of their last 9 matches.
Scoring Reliability: Al Shabab have scored in 83% of their matches this season, showcasing robust offensive capability.
- Historical Expectation: More than 2.5 goals have been scored in 78% of their recent encounters, indicating a high-scoring trend.
- Defensive Gaps: Al Nassr concedes 1.04 goals on average, while Al Shabab concedes 1.22, hinting at potential defensive lapses for both sides.
Al Nassr FC comes in as the favorite with their strong head-to-head record and current standing in the league. However, Al Shabab cannot be discounted, and with odds of 3.55 for a win, they present a tempting option for risk-takers. Expect both teams to go all out for the win!
Al Nassr FC Team Analysis
Recent Performance: DDWLL
Al Nassr’s recent form hasn’t been stellar, with 2 draws and 2 losses dampening their spirits. Their last five matches are:
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Esteghlal | Al Nassr FC | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Al-Orobah FC | Al Nassr FC | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Al-Wehda | Al Nassr FC | 0-2 (Win) |
| Al Nassr FC | Al-Ettifaq | 2-3 (Loss) |
| Persepolis | Al Nassr FC | 0-0 (Draw) |
Al Nassr FC averages 1 goal per match and has secured 3 clean sheets in their last 5 games. Their defense has been relatively sturdy, but they need to capitalize more on scoring opportunities. Cristiano Ronaldo’s form will be critical in turning some of these draws and losses into wins.
Al Nassr FC Key Players
Al Nassr FC boasts star players, with Cristiano Ronaldo being the top scorer, having netted 17 goals this season. His influence on the pitch is monumental, and he’ll be key in breaking down Al Shabab’s defense. Another crucial player is Sadio Mané, who brings pace and creativity to the wings. Midfield general Marcelo Brozovic provides stability and vision, orchestrating plays from the heart of the pitch. Keep an eye on Bento, the dependable goalkeeper, who has kept three clean sheets in the last five games, showcasing Al Nassr’s defensive solidity.
Expected lineup for Al Nassr FC:
- Goalkeeper: Bento
- Defenders: Nawaf Al-Boushil, Mohamed Simakan, Mohammed Abdulhakim Al Fatil, Majed Qasheesh
- Midfielders: Ali Al-Hassan, Marcelo Brozovic, Ayman Yahya, Sadio Mané, Ângelo Gabriel
- Forward: Cristiano Ronaldo
Match Insights
- Head-to-Head Dominance: Al Nassr has dominated previous encounters.
- Recent Form: Al Nassr is struggling for consistency, while Al Shabab remains in solid form.
- Weather: A cool night (11°C) with scattered clouds and a gentle breeze, ideal conditions for a high-paced game.
home advantage, but Al Shabab poses a strong challenge with solid offensive play.
Al Nassr FC Team Analysis
Recent Performance (DDWLL)
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Esteghlal | Al Nassr FC | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Al-Orobah FC | Al Nassr FC | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Al-Wehda | Al Nassr FC | 0-2 (Win) |
| Al Nassr FC | Al-Ettifaq | 2-3 (Loss) |
| Persepolis | Al Nassr FC | 0-0 (Draw) |
Key Players
- Cristiano Ronaldo (17 goals) – Main attacking threat.
- Sadio Mané – Speed and creativity on the wings.
- Marcelo Brozovic – Midfield anchor and playmaker.
- Bento (GK) – 3 clean sheets in last 5 games.
Expected Lineup (4-3-3 Formation)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Bento |
| Defenders | Nawaf Al-Boushil, Mohamed Simakan, Mohammed Al Fatil, Majed Qasheesh |
| Midfielders | Ali Al-Hassan, Marcelo Brozovic, Ayman Yahya |
| Forwards | Sadio Mané, Ângelo Gabriel, Cristiano Ronaldo |
Injuries & Suspensions
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Ali Lajami | Muscle injury | Few days |
| Abdullah Al-Khaibari | Muscle injury | Mid March 2025 |
| Otávio | Muscle injury | Mid March 2025 |
| Sultan Al-Ghannam | Muscle injury | Mid March 2025 |
| Aymeric Laporte | Muscle injury | Mid March 2025 |
Al Shabab Team Analysis
Recent Performance (WWLWD)
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Al Shabab | Damac FC | 2-0 (Win) |
| Al-Raed | Al Shabab | 1-2 (Win) |
| Al-Taawoun | Al Shabab | 2-2 (Draw) |
| Al Shabab | Al Qadasiya | 2-3 (Loss) |
| Al Shabab | Al Khaleej | 5-1 (Win) |
Key Players
- Abderrazak Hamdallah (13 goals) – Star striker.
- Daniel Podence – Creative playmaker.
- Giacomo Bonaventura – Midfield dynamo
Al Shabab Expected Lineup (3-4-1-2 Formation)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Georgi Bushchan |
| Defenders | Mohammed Al-Shwirekh, Wesley Hoedt, Robert Renan |
| Midfielders | Nawaf Al Ghulaimish, Musab Al-Juwayr, Cristian Guanca, Leandrinho |
| Forwards | Daniel Podence, Giacomo Bonaventura, Abderrazak Hamdallah |
Al Shabab Injuries & Suspensions
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Fahad Al Muwallad | Chest injury | Mid March 2025 |
| Seung-Gyu Kim | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for season |
| Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
Al Nassr FC vs Al Shabab Head-to-Head Statistics
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Al Shabab | Al Nassr | 1-2 |
| Al Shabab | Al Nassr | 2-3 |
| Al Shabab | Al Nassr | 2-5 |
| Al Nassr | Al Shabab | 4-0 |
| Al Nassr | Al Shabab | 0-0 |
Al Nassr has dominated past encounters, making them favorites for this clash.
Venue & Weather Conditions
- Stadium: Al-Awwal Park (Capacity: 25,000)
- Weather: 11°C, scattered clouds, light wind.
Final Verdict: Expect an attacking spectacle, with Al Nassr slightly favored due to their superior home record and head-to-head history.
Prediction: Al Nassr 3-1 Al Shabab
Al Nassr FC vs Al Shabab Live Streaming in India
The Al-Nassr vs Al Shabab 2024-25 match will take place on Saturday, March 8, at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30 AM IST. Fans in India can watch the match live on the Sony Sports Network, which will broadcast the Saudi Pro League clash. For those who prefer to stream the match, live streaming will be available on the SonyLiv app and website.
