As the Saudi King’s Cup semi-finals approach, all eyes are on the clash between Al Ittihad and Al Shabab at the King Abdullah Sports City on April 1, 2025. This match not only represents a chance for glory in one of the most prestigious tournaments in Saudi football but also a pivotal moment in the ongoing Roshn Saudi League (RSL) season.
Al Ittihad, currently leading the RSL standings with an impressive 61 points from 19 wins, four draws, and just two losses, enters this semi-final as the clear favorite. The team is buoyed by its recent form, having triumphed over rivals Al Hilal in a thrilling penalty shootout during the quarter-finals, securing a 5-3 victory after the match ended in a draw. However, they come into this match with some injury concerns, as key players Steven Bergwin and Houssem Aouar are sidelined, having contributed a combined total of 20 goals and 10 assists this season.
In their last league match before the international break, Al Ittihad managed to salvage a draw against Al Riyadh thanks to a last-minute penalty from Saleh Al Shehri, which marked the end of a three-match winless streak. This performance showcased the resilience of the team, but the absence of Bergwin and Aouar will undoubtedly place more pressure on captain Karim Benzema, who has been in stellar form himself with 16 goals and eight assists this season.
On the other hand, Al Shabab is riding a wave of confidence, having won three of their last four league matches. Their most recent performance saw them demolish Al Orobah 6-0, a match that highlighted their attacking prowess and sent a clear message to their semi-final rivals. Al Shabab’s captain, Abderrazak Hamdallah, who previously played for Al Ittihad, has been a standout performer this season, scoring 17 goals and aiming to become the all-time leading scorer in the RSL. Hamdallah’s experience and goal-scoring ability will be crucial if Al Shabab hopes to upset the odds and reach their first King’s Cup final since 2014.
Historically, Al Ittihad has the upper hand in their encounters with Al Shabab, winning 22 of the 51 matches played between the two teams, while Al Shabab has claimed victory 16 times, with 13 matches ending in draws. However, Al Shabab has managed to defeat Al Ittihad twice in their past three encounters, which could provide them with the psychological edge needed for this knockout match.
The other semi-final features Al Qadsiah taking on Al Raed on April 2, 2025. Al Qadsiah, currently fourth in the RSL, is considered the favorite against a struggling Al Raed, who finds themselves at the bottom of the league table after a dismal run of form that has seen them lose 12 of their last 14 matches. Despite their league struggles, Al Raed has shown resilience in cup competitions, previously eliminating higher-ranked teams. Their recent performances have been bolstered by key players like Amir Sayoud and Karim El Berkaoui, both of whom have the potential to turn the tide in their favor.
Al Qadsiah has established itself as a formidable force this season, boasting the best defensive record in the RSL, having conceded only 21 goals in 25 matches. Their success has been attributed to a solid backline led by former Real Madrid captain Nacho and a standout goalkeeper in Koen Casteels, who has recorded the most clean sheets this season. Offensively, Al Qadsiah has also been impressive, with Julian Quinones scoring 15 goals and contributing four assists, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has added 11 goals to the tally.
As the semi-finals draw near, both matches promise to deliver high-stakes drama and excitement. Al Ittihad will aim to leverage their league form and home advantage, while Al Shabab seeks to capitalize on their recent resurgence. Meanwhile, Al Qadsiah will look to maintain their defensive solidity against an Al Raed side desperate for a turnaround.
The semi-finals of the King’s Cup are not only about securing a place in the final but also about pride, history, and the opportunity to lift silverware. With both matches expected to be fiercely contested, fans can anticipate a thrilling showcase of Saudi football talent.
As the matches unfold, the narratives of redemption, rivalry, and the quest for glory will surely captivate audiences. Will Al Ittihad continue their dominance, or will Al Shabab pull off a stunning upset? Can Al Qadsiah maintain their impressive form against the struggling Al Raed? The answers will begin to unfold in the coming days as the semi-finals kick off.
Stay tuned for live updates and coverage as these teams battle it out for a coveted spot in the King’s Cup final.
