One of the favorites to win the competition this year is Al Hilal. Joao Cancelo and Marcos Leonardo, two outstanding signings that have further improved the club, have joined them. Blue Waves will be under pressure to meet expectations after their success in the previous season.
They have started the season in some form winning all their Saudi Pro League matches while also beginning their run in the AFC Champions League Elite competition with a 3-1 victory over Al-Rayyan in the first encounter.
Al Shorta, led by their former coach Momen Soliman, enjoyed a fantastic season the previous season, winning the domestic double. This summer, Ahmad Salah Alwan took his place. The Iraqi champions have had a strong start to the competition.
In the opening game against Al Nassr, they were able to draw. They now have to contend with Al Hilal, the defending Saudi Pro League champions, who have shown menace this season.
This season, Aleksandar Mitrovic has been a standout player for Al Hilal and doesn't appear to be slowing down. He is presently leading the Saudi Pro League in goals scored, having already started the new season in outstanding form with 11 goals in the first nine games.
In addition to being a devastating finisher, Mitrovic can also pose a threat with set pieces and crosses. In this game, he will pose a threat to the visiting team.
After being instrumental in winning the double the previous season, the Syrian international has emerged as one of the team's key players. He is an accomplished player who has participated in high-profile matches at the age of 37.
His past encounters in the middle of the park will also be essential in neutralizing the danger their rivals pose. especially when counterattacking, by covering the back four with timely challenges and tackles.
Neymar, who is recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, is the only injury issue for Al Hilal. Moten Al-Harni is still questionable for this game as well.
Meanwhile, Al Shorta have a fully fit squad to choose from. They will probably play with the same lineup that held Al Nassr to a thrilling draw.
We are in for a thrilling match. Al Hilal is among the competition's knowledgeable teams. Given the caliber of players on their roster and the home crowd's support—which can play a significant role in this game—we predict them to win this match.
