The most eagerly awaited match this week is the Al-Ahli match against Al-Ettifaq. These two clubs actually always take turns winning.
But in the last meeting Al-ettifaq managed to beat Al-Ahli, namely in the previous season. At that time Al-Ahli was in poor performance and was even relegated from the Saudi Pro League.
But this season looks like it will be different. Al-Ahli is ready with the many European star players they have managed to bring in in the summer transfer window that has just ended. It's just that Al-Ettifaq currently also has no less European star players. So this time the match will definitely be very fierce.
But I would probably favorite Al-Ettifaq. Because I like their style of play after being coached by Steven Gerrard.
Al-Ahli is actually a promoted team this season, in the 2022/2023 season they play in division 1. Now, this team has been acquired by PIF. and become one of the elite clubs in this competition. Al-Ettifaq is a middle-class team, but they prioritize players from their academy. In this match, the home team is superior to Al-Ettifaq. It's natural, Al-Ahli is one of the clubs that has several former top European star players.
Meanwhile for Al-Ettifaq, they don't really prioritize bringing in famous stars. Maybe of the existing foreign players, only Jordan Herdeson has a big name. As for Moussa Dembelle, he didn't really shine in the European league. What concerns this team is that it is managed by Steven Gerrard. In this match, both teams will likely play with an offensive system, both targeting full points. However, because Al-Ahli is more favorite. Plus, this match is being held at their headquarters, it is very natural that the bookie will favor it.
But my prediction is that this match will be quite tough. even though it looks like Al Ahli will dominate the match. Unfortunately, it won't be easy to overthrow Al-Ettifaq, they have only lost once in their 7 matches. that too, against Al Hilal. There is a big possibility that this match will end in a draw.
BTW, this fight also brings together former players from Liverpool. In the next few minutes, the match will be held so enjoy watching it.