Al-Nassr vs Al Hazem – News and Probable Lineups

Al Nassr returns to Al-Awwal Park this Saturday evening, fully aware that anything less than a win could hinder their aspirations for the Saudi Pro League title.

With 52 points accrued, the Knights of Najd are currently in second place, while Al Hazem, positioned 11th, are concentrating on creating a gap from their competitors.

Match overview

Al Nassr approaches this match in exceptional form, having gained significant momentum in the Saudi Pro League title battle.

The Knights of Najd have shown resilience this season, blending offensive prowess with solid defensive strategies to position themselves as serious challengers.

Under Jorge Jesus, the team has collected 52 points from 21 encounters, winning 17, drawing one, and losing only three times.

Their attacking statistics are particularly striking, with 53 goals scored, while conceding just 18, marking the second-best defensive record in the league.

At home, Al Nassr has transformed Al-Awwal Park into a stronghold, winning nine of their 10 home league matches, suffering only one defeat, and they will look to assert their dominance once again in front of their fans.

Their recent form adds to the expectation, triumphing in each of their last nine matches across all competitions, including a tight 1-0 win against Arkadag in their latest fixture.

With talent spread across the squad, the hosts have consistently managed to exert control over matches while remaining a threat in the attacking zone.

On the other hand, Al Hazem has experienced a much more tumultuous season, now sitting 11th in the standings with 24 points from six victories, six draws, and nine losses over their first 21 matches.

Their defensive weaknesses have been a persistent concern, having allowed 38 goals thus far, one of the highest totals in the league, while only managing to score 22 themselves.

Jalel Kadri’s team has gathered two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five encounters, with a 2-1 triumph over Al Akhdoud in their previous match providing a much-needed boost in confidence.

Nonetheless, their away form continues to be a worry, having secured just three wins from 11 off their home turf – Al Hazem has struggled to maintain consistent performances on the road, which could be detrimental against a high-flying rival.

Kadri’s tactical approach has frequently favored a reactive style, centering on defensive solidity and counter-attacks, which might not suffice against an Al Nassr side currently exuding confidence and cohesive play.

The historical matchup also leans in favor of the home side, with Al Nassr triumphing in four of the last five encounters, one ending in a draw, including a recent 2-0 win in their last meeting.

Team News

Sami Al-Najei remains a doubt for Al Nassr as he continues to recover from a knee injury that has kept him sidelined since September.

Cristiano Ronaldo made his return to the squad in their previous league match and celebrated it with a goal; the seasoned forward is anticipated to spearhead the attack again as he aims to add to his tally.

In the defensive lineup, Mohamed Simakan is expected to partner with Inigo Martinez, with Sultan Al-Ghannam and Ali Al-Amri likely to occupy the full-back roles.

Marcelo Brozovic and Abdullah Al-Khaibari are anticipated to form the central midfield duo, while Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman function as wingers.

For Al Hazem, Kadri is likely to utilize a back three, consisting of Sultan Tanker, Youssouf Oumario, and Abdulrahman Al-Dakheel forming the defense.

Aboubacar Bah and Rosier Loreintz are set to feature in midfield, with Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi and Nawaf Al-Habshi providing attacking support.

Omar Al Somah, the scorer in the victory over Al Akhdoud, will be at the forefront, having netted five league goals this season and remaining the visitors’ main offensive threat.

Al Nassr probable starting XI:

Benedict; Al-Ghannam, Simakan, Martinez, Al-Amri; Coman, Brozovic, Al-Khaibari, Mane; Felix, Ronaldo

Al Hazem probable starting XI:

Zaid; Al-Dakheel, Oumario, Tanker; Shamrani, Rosier, Bah, Al-Rashid; Al-Habshi, Al-Duwaihi; Al Somah

Al Nassr’s recent performance, depth in attack, and formidable home record clearly position them as the favorites entering this matchup.

Al Hazem’s defensive shortcomings and inconsistency on the road could be laid bare against one of the league’s top teams, and the hosts are expected to showcase enough quality to secure the win.