Sat Nov 01 14:00:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Al Ittihad, the Saudi Pro League’s defending champions, are struggling this season, leading to a coaching change. New coach Sérgio Conceição is hoping a recent King’s Cup win against Al Nassr will spark a league comeback. Currently seventh, they face a tough challenge against Al Khaleej, a team just above them in the standings, led by in-form striker Joshua King. The article also mentions transfer rumors linking Bruno Fernandes to Saudi Arabia and Karim Benzema to Benfica.

News Article:

Al Ittihad Looks to Carry Cup Momentum Into League Clash Against Formidable Al Khaleej

DAMMAM – Al Ittihad, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, are seeking to reignite their domestic campaign this Saturday as they face a stern test against Al Khaleej. The match comes after a much-needed King’s Cup victory against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, a result coach Sérgio Conceição hopes will provide the spark needed to climb the league table.

Al Ittihad’s title defense has been shaky, resulting in the departure of Laurent Blanc. Conceição, his successor, faces an uphill battle to close the eight-point gap to league leaders Al Nassr after only six games.

Standing in their way is Al Khaleej, a team just ahead of Al Ittihad on goal difference. Spearheaded by prolific striker Joshua King, who is currently second in the Golden Boot race with seven goals, Al Khaleej possesses the firepower to exploit any complacency from the defending champions. Midfielder Kostas Fortounis is also a key player for Al Khaleej, leading the league in assists.

The match is scheduled for 5:35 PM Saudi time at Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam. Fans in Sub-Saharan Africa can watch on ESPN Africa, while those in India can tune in to FanCode.

Starting Lineups:

  • Al Khaleej: Anthony Moris; Saeed Al Hamsal, Bart Schenkeveld, Mohammed Khubrani, Rebocho; Georgios Masouras, Dimitros Kourbelis, Murad Al Hawsawi, Paolo Fernandes; Kostas Fortounis; Joshua King
  • Al Ittihad: Predrag Rajkovic; Ahmed Al Julaydan, Saad Al Mosa, Danilo Pereira, Mario Mitaj; N’Golo Kanté, Houssem Aouar, Fabinho; Moussa Diaby, Karim Benzema, Roger Fernandes

Transfer Rumors Swirl: Meanwhile, off the pitch, rumors are circulating about potential moves to the Saudi League. Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes is reportedly a target for Saudi clubs in January, and Karim Benzema has been linked with a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Benfica.

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