In a clash that promises high-intensity action and dramatic moments Al-Ettifaq vs Al Khaleej are gearing up to face each other at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium in Ad Dammam on Thursday, August 24th. This encounter marks a significant match in the ongoing Saudi 1st Division season. With both teams vying for early dominance, football enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting this thrilling showdown.
Al Ettifaq’s Strong Start under Steven Gerrard
Al Ettifaq’s ambitious aspirations have come to life with the appointment of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard as their manager. The club’s aggressive investment in top European talent, highlighted by Gerrard’s ex-Liverpool teammate Jordan Henderson assuming the captain’s armband, has infused an English fervor into the heart of the Saudi desert.
This season, Al Ettifaq aims for a top-three finish, and their performance in the initial matches has showcased their intent. The team’s campaign commenced with a stunning comeback victory against Al-Nassr in round 1, securing a 2-1 away win.
Notably, this victory was aided by the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo due to injury. Building on their strong start, Al Ettifaq triumphed 2-0 against Al Hazem in the second round, solidifying their position as one of the three teams with a perfect six points from their first two matches.
Al Ettifaq’s Potential Lineup
Al Ettifaq’s attacking prowess is likely to be led by their front three, who have already made their mark on the scoresheet. Despite Henderson‘s likely absence due to injury, the team’s depth shines through with quality cover Ozdemir available. The defensive duo of Tissenard and Hendry provides a formidable shield in the heart of the backline.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3) for Al-Ettifaq vs Al Khaleej match:
Victor – Abdulrahman, Tisserand, Hendry, Al-Khateeb – Al-Ghamdi, Ozdemir, Hazazi – Quaison, Dembele, Vitinho
Al Khaleej’s Challenge
In contrast, Al Khaleej’s start to the season has been less than inspiring. Coming off a challenging previous season, they narrowly avoided relegation. Unfortunately, their struggles have continued, suffering back-to-back 1-3 defeats.
Missing key players like left winger Al-Torais and starting winger Amaral, who faces visa issues, has impacted their attacking options. Striker Sherif and aggressive midfielder Poko have also been nursing injuries, although they might make a bench appearance.
Al Khaleej’s Anticipated Lineup
To bolster their lineup, Al Khaleej will be looking to field their best possible eleven, even with some players on the mend. The 4-2-3-1 formation is expected to provide balance between defense and attack.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1) for Al-Ettifaq vs Al Khaleej match:
Sehic – Al-Owdah, Al-Khabrani, Lopez, Rebocho – Al-Sumairi, Jung – Al-Ibrahim, Rodrigues, Martins – Al Salem
The Big Question: Jordan Henderson’s Availability
The spotlight is on Jordan Henderson, Al Ettifaq’s new captain and former Liverpool stalwart. Henderson sustained an injury during his Saudi debut in the first round, forcing him to miss the second match.
While fans are eager to see him in action, the decision to play him will likely be a touch-and-go one. Considering his injury history and age, Gerrard might opt to exercise caution and avoid risking Henderson’s participation.
In-Depth Statistics and Historical Encounters for Al-Ettifaq vs Al Khaleej match
Both teams’ current forms and past performances provide intriguing insights into their forthcoming encounter. Al Ettifaq’s attacking firepower, as evident from their six goals in two games, could prove decisive. Al Khaleej, on the other hand, must overcome their recent defeats and rediscover their scoring touch to challenge their formidable opponents.
In their previous meetings, Al Ettifaq has displayed dominance, winning three out of four encounters. The teams’ average goals per match stands at 2.75, suggesting a propensity for exciting, goal-filled games when they face each other.
As the anticipation builds for the clash between Al Ettifaq and Al Khaleej, football fans are in for a thrilling contest that could shape the trajectory of both teams’ seasons. With Gerrard’s ambitions driving Al Ettifaq’s charge and Al Khaleej’s determination to bounce back, the match promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and passion.
The kickoff at Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium on August 24th, 19:00 GMT, will mark the beginning of a chapter in Saudi football that fans won’t want to miss.