The Matchday 33 clash in the Saudi Pro League between Al-Shabab and Al-Ittihad will take place on May 20 at the Al-Shabab Club Stadium. Al-Shabab vs. Al-Ittihad: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Predicted lineups for Al-Shabab vs. Al-Ittihad
Al-Shabab (4-2-3-1): Kim Seung-gyu – Fawaz Al-Sagour, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Igor Lichnovsky, Moteb Al-Harbi – Ever Banega, Nasser Al-Dawsari – Carlos Junior, Hattan Bahebri, Nawaf Al-Abed – Odion Ighalo.
Al-Ittihad (4-3-3): Marcelo Grohe – Ahmed Hegazi, Ahmed Al-Saadi, Omar Hawsawi, Ziyad Al-Sahafi – Karim Benzema, Romarinho, Bruno Henrique – Abdulrahman Al-Obood, Abdulaziz Al-Bishi, Fahad Al-Muwallad.
Al-Shabab
In their last match, Al-Shabab suffered a 0-2 defeat at home to Al-Nassr. This result extended their winless run in the league to four matches (2 draws, 2 losses). The team has struggled to find the back of the net, scoring only once in their last four outings. In the standings, Al-Shabab is in seventh place with 45 points, and they need to win their remaining matches to secure a spot in the AFC Champions League qualification.
- The team has not lost in regular time in 5 of their last 7 home matches in the league (3 wins, 2 draws).
- Al-Shabab has not conceded more than one goal in 90 minutes in their last five home games in this tournament.
- The number "0" has appeared in the scoreline at the end of regular time in 4 of Al-Shabab's last 6 home matches in the league.
Al-Ittihad
Al-Ittihad comes into this match following a 3-0 victory over Al-Fateh. This win marked their third consecutive victory in the league, with the team scoring a total of eight goals during this period. Al-Ittihad is currently in second place with 65 points, just two points behind the league leaders Al-Hilal. Winning their remaining matches could see them lift the title.
- The team has not lost in regular time in their last six away matches in the league (4 wins, 2 draws).
- No more than two goals have been scored in 90 minutes in 5 of Al-Ittihad's last 7 away games in this tournament.
- At least one of the opponents failed to score in regular time in 6 of Al-Ittihad's last 7 away matches in the league.
Al-Shabab vs. Al-Ittihad: Match Prediction
Al-Shabab has faced challenges recently, particularly in finding the net, but they have shown resilience at home. The team often adopts a defensive approach, aiming to secure points. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad has been in impressive form, particularly in attack, and they will be eager to continue their title chase. However, Al-Shabab's solid home defense could pose a challenge.
Considering all factors, I do not expect this match to be high-scoring. My prediction: Total under 2.5 goals
