Fri Sep 19 17:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text, focusing on the Al Hilal vs. Al Ahli match:

**Headline: Saudi Pro League Gears Up for Blockbuster Clash: Al Hilal Faces Al Ahli in Jeddah**

**JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia** – The Saudi Pro League (SPL) is set to witness its first major showdown of the 2025-26 season this Saturday as Al Hilal travels to Jeddah to take on Al Ahli. Both teams are looking to gain ground on league leaders Al Nassr and Al Ittihad after recent draws.

Al Hilal comes into the match riding high on momentum after a come-from-behind 2-1 victory against Al Duhail in the AFC Champions League Elite, with summer signings Darwin Nunez and Theo Hernandez both finding the net. Nunez’s debut goal will undoubtedly boost Al Hilal’s confidence.

Al Ahli are also coming off the back of a 4-2 comeback win against Nasaf Qurashi in the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Ahli will be relying on their attacking prowess with Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney, plus the safe hands of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

The match kicks off Friday, Sept. 19 at 8:00 p.m. CAT (9:00 PM Saudi; 11:30 p.m. IST) at Al Inma Bank Stadium in Jeddah.

Al Ahli Possible Starting XI: Edouard Mendy; Ali Majrashi, Merih Demiral, Ibanez, Zakaria Al Hawsawi; Franck Kessie, Ziyad Aljohani; Riyad Mahrez, Enzo Millot, Feres Al Brikan; Ivan Toney

Al Hilal Possible Starting XI: Yassine Bounou; Joao Cancelo, Hassan Tombakti, Kalidou Koulibaly, Theo Hernandez; Ruben Neves, Nasser Al Dawsari; Malcom, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Salem Al Dawsari; Darwin Nunez

Defender Joao Cancelo is a doubt for Al Hilal due to a knock.

**Broadcast Information:**

* **ESPN Africa:** Across Sub-Saharan Africa (DStv 218, StarTimes 248 and ESPN2: DStv 219, StarTimes 249)
* **FanCode:** India

This match marks a crucial early test for both clubs as they navigate a league now brimming with international talent. ESPN Africa is committed to broadcasting the SPL throughout the season, showcasing the league’s biggest stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.

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