Al-Hilal vs Al Fayha: Team News, Lineups, and Match Predictions
Al-Hilal will face Al Fayha on Thursday in a crucial Saudi Pro League match at the Kingdom Arena, Riyadh. Currently, Al-Hilal leads the league, holding a seven-point advantage over their closest rivals. In contrast, Al Fayha is positioned 12th, just above the relegation zone.
Match Preview
Al-Hilal achieved a dramatic 2-1 victory against Neom SC in their latest match. Trailing at halftime, the team rallied to score two goals, with contributions from Hassan Tambakti and Ruben Neves. This victory marked their 13th win this season, solidifying their commanding lead.
Since drawing in consecutive matches against Al-Qadsiah and Al-Ahli SC, Al-Hilal has won 12 straight league games. Their dominance extends to past encounters with Al Fayha, having won four of their last five matches against them. Al-Hilal is on a 10-match winning streak at the Kingdom Arena, with six of those victories coming in the league.
Al Fayha’s Struggles
Al Fayha is currently mired in a difficult phase, with no wins in their last five away matches and only one draw in that stretch. Overall, they have not won in seven league games since defeating Al-Okhdood on November 7. After a recent 1-1 draw against Damac, they sit with 14 points, only five points above relegation.
Defensive Concerns
Emanuel Pedro’s squad has been shaky defensively, failing to keep a clean sheet in five consecutive matches and conceding 11 goals during that period. Al Fayha’s scoring record is troubling as well; they’ve netted just 13 goals, better than only two teams in the league.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Al-Hilal’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, has a fully fit squad. He is likely to maintain the same lineup from the win against Neom, featuring standout players like Ruben Neves, who scored and assisted in the last match. The attacking duo of Marcos Leonardo and Darwin Nunez is also expected to lead the attack.
On the other hand, Al Fayha will rely on Orlando Mosquera in goal and experienced defenders such as Chris Smalling and Mikel Villanueva. Fashion Sakala, their leading scorer with three goals, will look to break his streak of eight games without a score.
Possible Starting Lineups
| Al-Hilal | Al Fayha |
|---|---|
| Al Rubaie | Mosquera |
| Al Yami, Tambakti, Mari, Hernandez | Bamsaud, Smalling, Villanueva, Al Baqawi |
| Malcolm, Milinkovic-Savic, Neves, Kanno | Dahal, Benzia, Semedo, Al Beshe |
| Marcos Leonardo, Nunez | Remeseiro, Sakala |
Match Prediction
Given Al-Hilal’s strong form and home record, we predict a decisive 3-0 victory over Al Fayha. Their excellent attacking capability should prove too much for a visiting team struggling both defensively and offensively.
For further insights into potential outcomes and statistical predictions for this match, visit Filmogaz.com.
