Match preview

Al-Ahli have enjoyed an impressive campaign and currently sit third in the Saudi Pro League with 69 points, built on 21 wins, six draws and just three defeats. While their chances of winning the title are slim, they remain mathematically in the race with a few matches still to play. Their attacking numbers have been outstanding, scoring 59 goals while conceding only 22.

That offensive strength was evident in their latest outing, a convincing 4-0 win over Al Akhdoud, where Frank Kessié netted twice and was supported by goals from Valentin Atangana and Feras Al Brikan. The result helped them bounce back from a damaging 0-2 loss to Al Nassr, which dealt a blow to their title hopes. Overall, Matthias Jaissle’s side have won four of their last five matches, scoring nine goals and keeping two clean sheets in that stretch.

However, the earlier meeting between these teams serves as a warning: Al Fateh won 2-1, and across the last five encounters, Al-Ahli have managed just one victory, alongside one draw and three defeats.

Al Fateh arrive in a very different situation. They sit 12th with 33 points from eight wins, nine draws and 13 losses, holding a 10-point cushion above the relegation zone with only a few games left. While not yet mathematically safe, they are close — though recent form has been unconvincing, with one win, two draws and two defeats in their last five matches.

Their latest game did offer encouragement, as they came from 0-2 down to draw 2-2 with Neom, thanks to goals from Mourad Batna and Sofiane Bendebka. With survival still not fully secured, they will be eager to pick up points, though facing a motivated Al-Ahli side away from home is among the toughest challenges left.

Despite Al Fateh’s favorable head-to-head record, Al-Ahli’s superior squad quality, home advantage, and title ambitions make them clear favorites in this matchup.

Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney, who missed the previous match, are expected to return and strengthen Al-Ahli’s attack. In midfield, Kessié, Atangana, and Enzo Millot should provide balance and control, while Roger Ibanez remains a doubt after being substituted at halftime last time out.

Al-Ahli possible starting lineup:

Mendy; Majrashi, Ibanez, Hamed, Hawsawi; Kessie, Atangana, Millot; Mahrez, Toney, Saleh

Al Fateh possible starting lineup:

Pacheco; Baattiah, Aljari, Fernandes, Qasheesh; Saadane, Bendebka, Youssouf; Batna, Vargas, Al-Zubaidi

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