Saudi Pro League preview: saudi pro league — Al-Hilal vs Al Ittihad team news and lineups
Al-Hilal will welcome Al-Ittihad to Kingdom Arena on Saturday evening in a saudi pro league clash, with both sides chasing crucial objectives. By Aishat Akanni | 19 Feb 2026 15: 32, Last updated: 19 Feb 2026 15: 32.
Match setting and standings
The hosts sit at the summit of the standings and are maintaining an unbeaten run, while Al-Ittihad occupy sixth place and are pushing to close the gap on the top four in an increasingly competitive title race. Al-Hilal have amassed 53 points from their opening 21 matches; the Blue Waves have recorded 16 wins and five draws, scoring 55 goals and conceding just 18. Al-Ittihad have 37 points from 21 matches, with 11 wins, four draws and six defeats, scoring 36 and conceding 26.
Saudi Pro League home form
Al-Hilal’s dominance has been particularly evident at Kingdom Arena, where they remain unbeaten and boast nine wins and two draws on home soil. The Blue Waves’ balance at both ends of the pitch—55 goals scored and only 18 conceded across the opening 21 matches—underlines why they head into the fixture as formidable hosts.
Al-Hilal form and approach
Simone Inzaghi's side have developed a dynamic playing style built on high pressing, quick transitions and fluid attacking movements that make them difficult to contain. Their most recent outing produced a 2-1 victory over Al-Wahda in the AFC Champions League, and their recent form reads three wins and two draws from their last five matches in all competitions. With a potent attack supported by a well-organised midfield, the Blue Waves continue to control matches effectively, creating chances while limiting opposition opportunities, and they will be keen to extend their lead at the top, which remains finely poised.
Al-Ittihad form and outlook
Al-Ittihad arrive on the back of a convincing 4-1 victory over Al-Sadd in the AFC Champions League and have enjoyed encouraging recent form, with four wins from their last five matches across all competitions. Manager Sergio Conceicao has adopted a more aggressive and direct approach, often looking to exploit spaces on the counter-attack, particularly against possession-heavy sides. On the road, the Tigers have been relatively solid, with four wins, four draws and two defeats, and they will believe they have the tools to trouble Al-Hilal’s unbeaten home record.
Recent meetings and team news
Recent meetings between these sides have been closely contested: Al-Hilal have edged the head-to-head record with three wins from the last five encounters, while Al-Ittihad have claimed two victories. Team news ahead of the clash is mixed for the hosts—Al-Hilal could be without Malcom, who remains a doubt due to a knock, while Yusuf Akcicek is struggling with a hamstring issue and may not feature.
The stage at Kingdom Arena on Saturday evening sets up a heavyweight saudi pro league fixture with contrasting styles and fine margins likely to decide the outcome.
Byline: Aishat Akanni | 19 Feb 2026 15: 32, Last updated: 19 Feb 2026 15: 32.
