Al Ittihad March Into Top Clash as Pressure Intensifies
The Saudi Pro League is heating up and this weekend's clash between Al Okhdood and Al Ittihad is attracting all the headlines. Al Okhdood, who have struggled for stability all season, face the daunting task of hosting the league leaders at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah on March 2, 2025. Coming off a 1-3 loss to Al Fateh, the hosts know they're up against the wall, especially with pundits already tipping Al Ittihad for a comfortable victory.
Meanwhile, Al Ittihad may have only managed a 1-1 draw against Al Khaleej in their last outing, but they remain in command at the top. Their confidence stems not just from current form but from their sheer dominance in this match-up—having edged past Al Okhdood 1-0 in their last meeting in September 2023. The pattern is pretty clear: Al Okhdood have found it hard to break down Al Ittihad’s structure, and recent history suggests more of the same this round.
Team News, Tactical Tweaks & Predicted Lineups
Heading into this game, both clubs have been tight-lipped about injuries or suspensions. There are no big names missing so far, though minor tactical shifts could be on the cards, especially after recent performances. Al Okhdood’s defensive lapses have been exposed more than once this season, and coach Sami Al-Jaber is likely considering fresh faces, particularly at the back, in an attempt to avoid another home defeat.
Al Ittihad, on the other hand, have the luxury of attacking depth. Their frontmen—consistently sharp and inventive—are expected to keep Al Okhdood’s defense pinned deep. Given how the visitors like to dominate possession and build attacks patiently, this could spell a long evening for the home side. Expect the likes of star striker Karim Benzema to headline the attack with creative midfielders pulling the strings behind him.
There’s also the psychological edge to think about. Al Ittihad know a slip-up could open the door for chasing rivals, so every fixture feels like a must-win at this stage. Their coach, Nuno Espírito Santo, isn’t known for taking risks, so the starting XI will likely stick with tried-and-trusted regulars, reinforced by defensive discipline and a high pressing game.
Projected starting lineup for Al Okhdood may feature a packed midfield in an attempt to slow down Al Ittihad, but with the firepower available to the visitors, few expect them to struggle for chances. Analysts are already predicting a possible 3-0 result—an outcome that would reinforce both the visitors’ title hopes and the hosts' struggles against the league’s big guns.
Kick-off is set for Sunday night, and with the Saudi Pro League season heading into its decisive weeks, every minute will matter for both sets of fans.
