Al Ittihad manager Laurent Blanc anticipates the clash against Al Nassr to highlight the competition’s best.
“It’s the same everywhere—in France, in Europe—these matches matter to both clubs,” Blanc said. “But every game in the championship is crucial. This one is particularly important for the club, players, and fans. Expectations are high. It’s a great game for both teams to play.”
16:00 Al Nassr have received a significant double boost with Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo and Aymeric Laporte fit to play after recovering from injuries. Meanwhile, Al Ittihad may miss the injured trio of Abdulaziz Al Bishi, Luiz Felipe, and Moussa Diaby.
Al Ittihad: Rajkovic (GK); Mitaj, Pereira, Kadesh, Shanqeeti; Fabinho, Kante; Bergwijn, Aouar, Hawsawi; Benzema.
Al Nassr: Krepski (GK); Al Ghanam, Simakan, Laporte, Al-Boushail; Alkhaibari, Brozovic; Talisca, Otavio, Mane; Ronaldo
Historically, Al Ittihad hold the edge in their head-to-head record, with 31 wins from 68 meetings. Al Nassr have emerged victorious 19 times, while 18 encounters ended in draws. Their last meeting was in May 2024, when Al Nassr secured a 4-2 home victory.
The Jeddah giants enter the clash after a commanding 4-0 league win over Al Ettifaq last week. Meanwhile, the visitors suffered a surprising 2-1 home defeat to Al Sadd in the AFC Champions League Elite.
Hosts Al Ittihad aim to extend their lead atop the Saudi Pro League with 33 points, two clear of defending champions Al Hilal. Third-placed Al Nassr, on 25 points, will be seeking a crucial win to narrow the gap with their rivals.
Al Ittihad are set to clash with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League’s 13th matchday at Jeddah’s King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Friday, promising an electrifying encounter between two Saudi football giants.
