Toney, Kessie, Fabinho, Aouar Headline Key Battles in Jeddah Sea Derby

The upcoming Sea Derby in Jeddah is set to be a high-stakes match featuring Al Ahli and Al Ittihad. Both teams are vying for supremacy in the Roshn Saudi League (RSL), with Al Ahli aiming for their first title in years and Al Ittihad looking to thwart their rivals’ aspirations. Here’s a look at the key battles that will likely determine the outcome of this important clash.

Defensive Showdown

Al Ahli boasts the RSL’s best defensive record, having conceded just 15 goals in 24 matches. In contrast, Al Ittihad has struggled defensively, allowing 28 goals. However, their defense has shown improvement recently, conceding two or more goals only once in their last six games. A standout performer for Al Ittihad has been Danilo Pereira, but the absence of Merih Demiral could create opportunities for Al Ittihad’s attack against Al Ahli’s resilient defense.

Key Midfield Battle: Kessie vs. Fabinho

• Fabinho, the captain of Al Ittihad and former Liverpool star, has been pivotal in the midfield.
• Al Ahli’s Franck Kessie will be key in countering Fabinho’s influence.
• The midfield battle will play a crucial role in determining control over the game.

Creativity in Attack: Mahrez and Aouar

In the attacking setup, Al Ahli’s Riyad Mahrez and Al Ittihad’s Houssem Aouar are vital to both teams. Mahrez has registered 65 chances created and seven assists this season, while both players have scored three goals. Mahrez had the decisive strike in the season’s first Sea Derby, giving him bragging rights over Aouar.

Winger Clash: Galeno vs. Diaby

• Diaby has been the top assist provider at Al Ittihad with six assists this season.
• Galeno, a standout player for Al Ahli last season, ranks third with three assists.

Striker Showdown: Toney vs. En Nesyri

The match also features a head-to-head between the league’s top scorer, Ivan Toney, and newcomer Youssef En Nesyri. Toney leads the scoring chart with 23 goals and five assists. Meanwhile, En Nesyri, who recently joined Al Ittihad, has netted three times in six appearances.

Coaching Strategies: Jaissle vs. Conceicao

Matthias Jaissle, coaching Al Ahli, is the longest-serving manager in the league. In contrast, Sergio Conceicao, the newly appointed head coach of Al Ittihad, is eager to make his mark. After losing his first Sea Derby, Conceicao aims to avoid becoming the first coach to drop his first two derbies. Jaissle hopes to equal the record for most wins by an Al Ahli coach against Ittihad.

This exciting Sea Derby promises to be a critical match for both teams, with the potential to significantly impact their title aspirations in the RSL. Fans can expect a fierce contest filled with pivotal battles across the pitch.