A painful defeat last time out taught Al-Ahli Saudi a valuable lesson. The title race is only just beginning, so they still have time to make up lost ground. Al-Taawoun are opponents a top-three contender should be capable of taking three points against at home.
Al-Ahli Saudi
Before their defeat to Al-Shabab (1:6) last Friday, Al-Ahli Saudi had won five matches in a row, scoring at least three goals in four of them. Everything unravelled last time out after their goalkeeper was sent off early — their opponents made good use of the advantage, while Al-Ahli Saudi clearly missed Ivan Toney, Galeno and Eduard Spertsyan in the starting line-up. On the other hand, all their stars will be available for the upcoming match, and they are unbeaten at home since March.
Al-Taawoun
Al-Taawoun are near the bottom of the table alongside bottom-placed Abha — they are the only two teams in the Pro League yet to win since the campaign began. Al-Taawoun were clearly fortunate against Al-Ettifaq (1:1): they held the lead after an early penalty but conceded a late equaliser, having allowed 2.08 xGA.
Al-Ahli Saudi vs Al-Taawoun Prediction
Al-Taawoun have the second-worst goal difference in the league (-14). Stung by their recent defeat, Al-Ahli Saudi should take the initiative and pull clear on the scoreboard at home.
