Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Saudi Pro League match.
In Matchweek 4 of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal host Al-Okhdood. The hosts have not made a perfect start, yet they remain the leading title favourites. The visitors are the only side in the league yet to pick up a point, and the upcoming fixture looks a stern test.
Al-Hilal
After three rounds, Al-Hilal have five points from two draws and one win. Their last league outing against Al-Ahli was a shock: having led 3:0, they conceded late to draw (3:3). In the league so far Al-Hilal have scored seven and conceded five, which underlines ongoing issues in defence. However, in the King Cup the squad progressed by beating Al-Adalah (1:0). The head-to-head record against Al-Okhdood is emphatic: four straight wins with a 13:0 aggregate. That balance is a strong psychological factor before kick-off.
Al-Okhdood
Al-Okhdood have started disastrously with three defeats, no points and bottom of the standings. There is little cutting edge in attack and the defence makes errors. Their last match ended in a 0:1 defeat. The only consolation is a narrow 1:0 King Cup win over Al-Raed, but against this calibre of opponent it looks more like an exception than the rule. Away from home Al-Okhdood are inconsistent, and their last success dates back to May when they beat Al-Khaleej (3:2). They often come up short against top sides, and a trip to Riyadh is a demanding assignment.
Al-Hilal vs Al-Okhdood Prediction
The gulf in quality is significant. Al-Hilal are potent going forward and regularly dismantle weaker backlines. Meanwhile, Al-Okhdood remain in crisis and usually suffer against the league’s leading teams. Even with defensive concerns for the hosts, the attacking potential points towards a comprehensive victory.
