Reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al Nassr begin their title defence at Al-Awwal Park against Al Fateh on August 16 at 01:00. Led by newly appointed manager Ange Postecoglou, Al Nassr aim to make a strong opening statement despite a turbulent pre-season campaign.
Form & Team News
Al Nassr experienced mixed results in their summer friendlies, securing just one win in four outings. However, the squad boasts elite firepower featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Kingsley Coman, and Joao Felix. The midfield has been reinforced by the arrival of Samu Costa, who takes over midfield duties following Marcelo Brozovic's departure.
Al Fateh, managed by Khaled Al-Atwi, finished 11th last season and struggled during their pre-season, suffering defeats against Al Arabi (1-2) and Mallorca (0-3). Key players like Matias Vargas, Mourad Batna, and Zaydou Youssouf will need to be at their absolute best to challenge the champions.
Head-to-Head Record
Al Nassr have dominated this fixture in recent years, claiming 8 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 defeat across their last 10 meetings against Al Fateh. Recent results include emphatic 5-1 and 2-0 victories for the Riyadh outfit.
Predicted Lineups
Al Nassr (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Bento
- Defenders: Sultan Al-Ghannam, Mohamed Simakan, Iñigo Martínez, Salem Al-Najdi
- Midfielders: Samu Costa, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Joao Felix
- Forwards: Kingsley Coman, Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane
Al Fateh (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Fernando Pacheco
- Defenders: Saeed Baattia, Marwane Saadane, Ammar Al-Daheem, Ziyad Al-Jari
- Defensive Midfielders: Zaydou Youssouf, Naif Masoud
- Attacking Midfielders: Wesley Delgado, Matias Vargas, Mourad Batna
- Striker: Djaniny
Match Prediction
With home advantage and sheer attacking prowess, Al Nassr are heavy favourites to break down Al Fateh's vulnerable backline.
Prediction: Al Nassr 4-1 Al Fateh