In this file photo, players vie for the ball during the first encounter.

RIYADH, Feb 19: Al Hilal hosts fierce rival Al Ittihad at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday in the standout fixture of Matchweek 23 of the Saudi Pro League.

League leader Al Hilal, who sits on 53 points, is determined to protect its spot at the summit amid intense pressure from Al Nassr (52 points) and Al Ahli (50). It faces reigning champion Al Ittihad, whose league campaign has fallen below expectations this season.

Currently sixth with 37 points, Al Ittihad’s hopes of retaining the league title appear slim. However, the team remains in contention for silverware in the King’s Cup, having reached the semifinals, and continues to compete in the AFC Champions League Elite.

Portuguese coach Sérgio Conceição will be eager to settle the score after losing to Al Hilal’s Italian manager Simone Inzaghi in the first-round clash. Although Al Ittihad controlled possession in that encounter, Al Hilal made the difference with their clinical finishing.

Elsewhere, third-placed Al Ahli welcomes bottom side Al Najma, who has collected just eight points. Coach Matthias Jaissle will look to extend his team’s strong run of form following a series of impressive performances.

Al Nassr, meanwhile, hosts Al Hazm in a crucial home fixture. It aims to maintain its winning momentum and continue closing the gap on Al Hilal, boosted by Cristiano Ronaldo’s return and influential displays. Al Hazm currently occupies 11th place with 24 points.