Saudi football fans will be glued to their screens this evening (Wednesday) as the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League kicks off with three high-stakes matches. These encounters carry complex calculations, both in the title race and the battle to avoid relegation. This round comes at a crucial juncture in the competition, with teams striving to solidify their positions before the league enters its final stages. The technical and tactical level of Saudi teams has noticeably improved thanks to international signings.
Round highlight: Al-Ahli vs. Al-Ettifaq
At 8:30 PM on the pitch of Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, Al-Ahli will face a true test against their tough opponent, Al-Ettifaq. Al-Ahli enters this match with their sights set on nothing less than three points, aiming to secure their place in the top four and seriously compete for the top spot or second place to guarantee an Asian Champions League spot next season. Al-Ahli boasts an impressive 40 points from 12 victories, and the team has been characterized this season by a remarkable defensive solidity, having conceded only 12 goals, making them one of the strongest defenses in the league.
On the other hand, Al-Ittifaq will not be an easy opponent, as the "Knights of Ad-Dahna" are eager to return to winning ways and move closer to the top of the table, currently sitting in seventh place with 29 points. This match is particularly important given the history of competition between the two teams, whose encounters are often characterized by intense rivalry and tactical excitement.
Escape struggle and the warm zone
At the same time, Al Majma'ah Sports City Stadium will host a balanced encounter between Al Fayha and Al Khaleej. Al Fayha, bolstered by home advantage and fan support, will be looking to escape their slump and move away from the relegation zone, currently sitting in twelfth place with 17 points. This match represents a lifeline for the home side to get back on track. Meanwhile, Al Khaleej enters the game with relative ease and higher aspirations, having enjoyed a remarkable season, currently in eighth place with 25 points, relying on their potent attack which has scored 37 goals so far.
Al-Najma and Riyadh: The Search for Hope
In Buraidah, at 6:20 PM, Al-Najma hosts Al-Riyadh in a must-win match for the home side. Al-Najma is struggling at the bottom of the table (18th place) with only 4 points and desperately needs its first league victory to revive its slim hopes of avoiding relegation. On the other hand, Al-Riyadh enters the match with high morale after securing a thrilling draw against league leaders Al-Hilal in the previous round, giving them a strong incentive to win and reach 14 points, thus distancing themselves from the relegation zone.
