Al-Hilal player attempts a shot on goal as Al-Ahli players rush to defend.

RIYADH, Sept 18: Al-Ahli Jeddah welcomes Al-Hilal today in the first Roshn Saudi League Clasico of the season at Al-Enma Stadium. Both sides enter the match after draws in the previous round: Al-Ahli held Al-Ettifaq 0-0 away, while Al-Hilal drew 2-2 at home against Al-Qadsiah, leaving each team with 4 points, two behind the leaders.

In other matches today, Al-Qadsiah hosts Al-Khaleej, with Al-Qadsiah sitting fourth on 4 points and Al-Khaleej chasing a perfect start with 6 points. Meanwhile, Al-Fayha takes on Al-Shabab, seeking to recover from last round’s loss, while Shabab looks to build on its recent victory over Al-Hazem.

Al-Ahli aims to replicate a rare feat achieved nearly a decade ago, when the club won two consecutive league matches against Al-Hilal in the 2015-2016 season, also ending a long losing streak with a 3-2 triumph. Al-Hilal has won its last two away matches at Al-Ahli 2-1, but has never managed three consecutive wins there. Al-Ahli’s last home win over Al-Hilal came in August 2020.

Tomorrow’s fixtures include Al-Nassr vs. Al-Riyadh, Al-Najma vs. Al-Ittihad, and Al-Hazem vs. Al-Fateh.