Saudi Pro League Showdown: Al Kholood Hosts Al Ettifaq in Crucial Fixture for League Standing
Saturday features a pivotal Saudi Pro League clash as Al Kholood welcomes Al Ettifaq to Al-Hazem Club Stadium. This match is a crucial opportunity for the struggling home side, Al Kholood, to climb out of the relegation zone, while Al Ettifaq aims to continue their strong form and solidify their upper-mid-table position. With both teams eager for three points, an intense battle is anticipated.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This Saudi Pro League fixture holds significant importance for the home side, Al Kholood. Having been promoted to the top flight in 2024, the 2025-26 season marks their second consecutive season in the Saudi Pro League. As of January 21, Al Kholood sits in 12th place in the league table with 15 points from 16 matches, holding a goal difference of -6. They are teetering on the edge of the relegation zone and are in desperate need of points to secure their top-flight status for next season. For the visiting Al Ettifaq, this is their 47th non-consecutive season in the Pro League. Currently, they are positioned 7th in the league table with 26 points from 16 matches and a goal difference of 0. Al Ettifaq is looking to solidify their mid-table standing and potentially push for higher positions, including continental qualification spots. The Saudi Pro League features a promotion and relegation system, with the top two teams qualifying for the AFC Champions League, and an additional three teams for the Arab Club Champions Cup.
Recent Form
Al Kholood has struggled in their recent five official matches, recording one win and four losses. Their most recent result was a 0-1 defeat to Al Ahli on January 17. Prior to that, they experienced a 0-4 away loss to Al Qadsiah and a narrow 2-3 home defeat to Neom SC in October and November. However, they did secure a convincing 5-1 victory over Al Najma on October 17, showcasing their scoring potential. Al Ettifaq, on the other hand, has shown more consistent form, with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. Their most recent outing was a 0-0 home draw against Neom SC on January 21. Before that, they secured a 1-0 away win against Al Ittihad on January 16, and also registered victories against Al Okhdood and Al Najma earlier in January, but suffered a 1-2 loss to Al Khaleej on January 12.
Key Players & Injury News
Al Kholood's attack will rely on Argentine forward Ramiro Enrique, who leads the team in scoring for the 2025-26 season with 9 goals. Other notable attacking players include Hattan Bahebri and Myziane Maolida, both with 3 goals. In defense, Nigerian international William Troost-Ekong, Slovakian defender Norbert Gyömbér, and Surinamese defender Shaquille Pinas are key figures. As of now, there are no new major injury concerns reported for Al Kholood. Al Ettifaq boasts several international stars, including Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, who serves as captain. French forward Moussa Dembélé and Cameroonian forward Karl Toko Ekambi also play crucial roles in attack. The defense features Scottish international Jack Hendry and Spanish midfielder Álvaro Medrán. Forwards Khalid Al Ghannam and Moussa Dembélé are joint top scorers for the team with 5 goals each. Al Ettifaq currently has no new significant injury concerns reported.