The Saudi Pro League is set to showcase an exciting clash on Thursday, April 17, 2025, as Al Shabab takes on Al Okhdood in the 28th round of the season. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:50 PM (Brasilia time) at the iconic King Fahd Stadium in Riyadh, a venue renowned for its rich football history and vibrant atmosphere.
Al Shabab, currently positioned sixth in the league standings, is on a mission to secure a spot in continental competitions. The team boasts an impressive record of 15 wins, four draws, and eight losses, having scored 52 goals while conceding 31. With a home success rate of 66%, they are eager to extend their winning streak, having recently triumphed over Al Wehda and Al Kholood.
On the other hand, Al Okhdood finds itself in a precarious situation, sitting in the relegation zone at 16th place. With 24 points from 27 matches, their record includes six wins, six draws, and 15 losses, with 27 goals scored and 41 conceded. Despite their struggles, Al Okhdood comes into this match with a three-game unbeaten streak, including two victories and a draw, and they are determined to escape the drop zone.
Under the guidance of coach Fatih Terim, Al Shabab is expected to field a strong lineup. Key players like Abderrazak Hamdallah, who has netted seven goals this season, and Musab Al-Juwayr, who leads the league with 15 chances created, are poised to make significant contributions. The probable lineup includes Abdul Al-Mayouf in goal, with a defensive line of Moha Al-Thani, Wesley Hoedt, Nader Al-Sharari, and Robert Renan. In midfield, Glen Kamara and Chino Guanca will look to control the game, while Daniel Podence and Yannick Carrasco provide attacking support alongside Hamdallah.
Meanwhile, Al Okhdood, managed by Noureddine Zekri, is likely to adopt a more defensive strategy, relying on counter-attacks to exploit Al Shabab's vulnerabilities. Their expected lineup features Paulo Vítor as the goalkeeper, with a backline consisting of Awadh Faraj, Saeed Al Rubaie, Naif Asiri, and Yaseen Al-Zubaidi. The midfield will include Christian Bassogog, who has five goals this season, and Juan Sebastián Pedroza, while Saviour Godwin and Saleh Al Abbas will lead the attack.
The historical context of this matchup favors Al Shabab, who has won both previous encounters against Al Okhdood. Their last meeting on November 22, 2024, ended in a 2-0 victory for Al Shabab, with goals from Hamdallah and Al-Juwayr. The overall record shows Al Shabab has never lost to Al Okhdood in official matches, putting additional pressure on the visitors to break that trend.
As the teams prepare for this crucial encounter, analysts have given Al Shabab a 63% chance of victory, compared to 18% for Al Okhdood and 19% for a draw. The most likely scoreline predicted is 2-1 in favor of Al Shabab, reflecting their offensive prowess against Al Okhdood's defensive frailties.
The match will be held at the King Fahd Stadium, which has a capacity of 68,752 and is known for hosting significant events in Saudi football history. With an expected attendance surpassing 30,000 fans, the atmosphere is sure to be electric, as the home crowd rallies behind Al Shabab.
For fans eager to catch the action, the game will be broadcast live on the Canal GOAT, available for free on YouTube, and on Bandsports, which will provide comprehensive coverage with expert commentary. Additionally, platforms like Sofascore and Flashscore will offer real-time updates, while DAZN provides international streaming options.
The weather in Riyadh on match day is expected to be clear, with temperatures around 28°C, creating ideal conditions for a thrilling football match. Players and fans alike should brace for the warm climate, ensuring hydration is a priority.
In terms of tactics, Fatih Terim's approach emphasizes ball possession and wing play, utilizing the creativity of Podence and Guanca to support Hamdallah in attack. Conversely, Zekri's Al Okhdood will likely focus on a compact defense and quick transitions, hoping to capitalize on any mistakes made by their opponents.
The stakes are high for both teams. A victory for Al Shabab could solidify their position in the upper echelons of the league, bringing them closer to a coveted spot in the AFC Champions League. For Al Okhdood, every point is vital as they battle to avoid relegation, making this match a test of resilience and strategy for both sides.
As kickoff approaches, fans are reminded of the rich tradition of the Saudi Pro League and the growing global interest in its matches. With star players and passionate supporters, this clash between Al Shabab and Al Okhdood promises to be a memorable encounter in the ongoing season.
With the backdrop of the King Fahd Stadium and the vibrant atmosphere created by the fans, this match is not just a battle for points but also a showcase of the evolving landscape of Saudi football, marked by international talent and increasing competitiveness.
