Roshn Saudi League: Al Khaleej Hosts Al Shabab in Crucial Mid-Table vs. Relegation Battle
In a crucial Roshn Saudi League match, eighth-placed Al Khaleej will host Al Shabab, currently battling relegation in 14th position. This encounter is vital for both teams, with the hosts aiming to solidify their mid-table standing and potentially climb higher, while the visitors desperately need points to escape the relegation zone.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This Friday, the Roshn Saudi League will feature an intriguing match as Al Khaleej hosts Al Shabab at the Al-Khaleej Club Stadium in Saihat. Al Khaleej currently sits in a comfortable eighth position in the league table with 24 points, aiming to solidify their mid-table standing and potentially push for a higher finish. In stark contrast, Al Shabab is under immense pressure, occupying 14th place with just 12 points, hovering precariously close to the relegation zone. The Roshn Saudi League comprises 18 teams, with three clubs facing relegation to the Saudi First Division at the end of the season. Consequently, every point is critical for Al Shabab in their fight for survival.
Recent Form
Al Khaleej's recent form over their last five official matches has been mixed. Their most recent outing on January 20th saw them suffer a disappointing 4-1 defeat against Al Ahli. Prior to that loss, they had recorded three wins and one draw, indicating a degree of resilience. Al Shabab's recent performance has been more concerning, securing only one victory in their last five matches. This includes a 0-0 draw against Al Najma on January 20th, a 3-2 loss to Al Nassr on January 17th, a 2-0 defeat to Al Taawoun on January 9th, and another 2-0 loss to Al Fateh on January 3rd. Their sole win in this period was a 3-2 victory over Neom on January 14th, which offered a brief respite from their struggles.
Key Players & Injury News
Al Khaleej boasts several key attacking players, notably Greek midfielder Kostas Fortounis, a pivotal playmaker and the team's leading assist provider with 10 assists. Strikers Joshua King and Giorgos Masouras are also vital sources of goals for the team. On the injury front, Saudi international Murad Al-Hawsawi is expected to miss the match due to a thigh muscle injury. For Al Shabab, Belgian international Yannick Carrasco is their star player and primary offensive threat, capable of changing games with his individual brilliance. Goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe also provides a steady presence for the team. It's worth noting that several Al Shabab players, including Faisal Al Subiani, M. Al-Hammami, and M. Abdullah, might be unavailable due to international duty in January 2026.