Fiery Summit: Hilal and Ittihad in a decisive clash tomorrow.

Riyadh is preparing to host the Roshn Saudi League summit clash between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad tomorrow, Saturday, at the Kingdom Arena in the 23rd round of matches. The game holds particular significance as it marks the first appearance of French striker Karim Benzema with his new club, Al-Hilal, following his departure from Al-Ittihad during the winter transfer window.

Historically, Al-Hilal has the upper hand in clashes between these two rivals. The team has won 18 of the 35 matches played between the two sides in the Saudi Professional League, compared to 7 victories for Al-Ittihad and 10 draws. Al-Hilal’s attack also boasts a superior goal-scoring record, having scored 65 goals against Al-Ittihad’s 40.

Al-Hilal currently leads the league table with 53 points, thanks to 16 wins and five draws, remaining undefeated so far. Al-Ittihad occupies sixth place with 37 points, having secured 11 wins, four draws, and six losses.

Al-Hilal enters the match aiming to continue its winning streak and solidify its position at the top, fully aware of the importance of securing a victory given the close pursuit of Al-Nassr. Any slip-up could see its traditional rival reclaim the league lead. Al-Hilal draws its strength from a star-studded lineup including Karim Benzema, Yassine Bounou, Rúben Neves, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Malcolm, Theo Hernández, Kalidou Koulibaly, Hassan Tambakti, Mohammed Kanoo, and Salem Al-Dawsari.

Meanwhile, despite falling behind in the title race, Al-Ittihad seeks to deliver a strong performance and achieve a positive result, benefiting from the return of several injured players. The team has shown good form in recent matches, particularly in the Asian Champions League. Al-Ittihad’s squad features prominent players such as Moussa Diaby, Muhammadu Dumbuya, Roger Fernández, Fabinho, Houssem Aouar, Raković, Youssef Al-Naser, and Steven Bergwijn.