Al Ittihad vs Al Fayha – News and Probable Lineups

On Friday evening, Al Ittihad hosts Al Fayha at the Al Inma Stadium in a crucial Saudi Pro League matchup as both teams approach Matchday 22 with much at stake.

With an 11-point gap between them, the home side holds seventh place with 34 points, while Al Fayha sits 11th with 23 points, and they understand that a win could significantly alter the standings in the middle of the table.

Match overview

This season has been characterized by inconsistency for Al Ittihad, with moments of strong play often countered by disappointing results.

With a record of 10 wins, four draws, and six losses from 20 matches, they remain close to the top six but cannot afford to drop points frequently.

Sergio Conceicao’s team has netted 34 goals, but their defensive issues, highlighted by conceding 25, have hindered their performance during pivotal moments.

Their recent league match ended in a disappointing 2-0 loss against Al Nassr, exposing this weakness.

Nevertheless, confidence is likely to have been restored following an impressive 7-0 thrashing of Al-Gharafa in the AFC Champions League on Tuesday.

This commanding performance, particularly in attack, demonstrated the offensive capabilities at Conceicao’s disposal and may provide the much-needed momentum for this fixture.

In their last five matches across all competitions, Al Ittihad has achieved three victories, one draw, and one loss, indicating a possible return to form.

Conversely, Al Fayha has faced a challenging season and currently sits 11th with six wins, five draws, and nine losses.

Their goal difference of 22 scored and 33 conceded highlights struggles at both ends of the pitch.

However, recent performances have provided some hope, as Pedro Emanuel’s squad has clinched three victories in their last five matches, including a strong 3-0 win at home against Al Najma in their previous outing.

Nevertheless, their away form is a cause for concern, having secured only two victories in their last 10 matches on the road.

Inconsistency in scoring goals away from home has made it difficult for them to assert dominance, and facing an attacking Al Ittihad side will present yet another formidable challenge.

Historically, this matchup tends to favor the home team, though their last meeting ended in a 1-1 draw.

Al Ittihad is undefeated in their last 10 games against Al Fayha across all competitions, during which they have notched up seven wins and three draws.

Team News

Al Ittihad may need to face this match with several key players unavailable, as Abdulrahman Al-Obood remains uncertain, while Faisel Al-Ghamdi (hamstring) and Saad Al-Mousa (ankle) continue to recover off the field.

Additionally, Steven Bergwijn is sidelined due to a muscle issue, restricting Conceicao’s choices in attack.

Nonetheless, the home side still has considerable depth, with Mahamadou Doumbia, Houssem Aouar, and Fabinho anticipated to control midfield, blending creativity with stability and defensive awareness.

Up front, Youssef En-Nesyri is expected to keep his spot following the team’s dazzling performance midweek, aiming to convert consistent pressure into goals once more.

On the other hand, Al Fayha approaches the match with a relatively healthy squad.

Mohammed Al-Baqawi, Chris Smalling, Mikel Villanueva, and Ahmed Bamsaud are set to form a sturdy defensive unit aimed at neutralizing Al Ittihad’s attacking threats.

Midfield duties are likely to fall to Alfa Semedo and Yassine Benzia, with Rakan Kaabi providing additional energy and support.

Sabri Dahal and Jason Remeseiro are expected to offer width, while Fashion Sakala, buoyed by his previous match goal, is set to lead the attack as the visitors seek another impactful performance.

Al Ittihad probable starting XI:

Rajkovic; Mitaj, Cadesh, Peira, Al-Shanqeti; Doumbia, Fabino; Al-Julayan, Auar, Diaby; Nestyri

Al Fayha probable starting XI:

Mosquera; Bassad, Villaneva, Smmmmling, Al-Buke; Jason, Benzi, Semedo, Cabi, Dahal; dead

Al Ittihad’s attacking prowess, along with their impressive historical record in this matchup, gives them the advantage.

Al Fayha has shown signs of progression recently, but their erratic away performance could be detrimental against a squad rejuvenated by a seven-goal display midweek.