Al-Hilal vs Al-Najma Match Preview and Analysis Al-Hilal, currently third in the Saudi Pro League table, faces a crucial match against bottom-of-the-table Al-Najma on Friday as they aim to maintain pressure on title contenders. The reigning champions, who had dominated the league with 14 wins in their first 16 games of the season, have slipped back after five draws in their last eight matches. This encounter presents an opportunity for Al-Hilal to strengthen their position in the title race, while Al-Najma will be desperate to secure a surprise result and avoid relegation. Al-Hilal’s squad faces some injury concerns, with Hamad Al-Yami and Saimon Bouabre sidelined. However, the club is hopeful of welcoming Karim Benzema back for the clash. Key players like Hassan Tambakti, Youssef Niacti, and Mohammed Kanoo are still undergoing fitness assessments, while Mohammed Al-Yami and Yusuf Akcicek remain doubtful. In contrast, Al-Najma’s only major absentee is Mohammed Al-Kunaydiri, recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, leaving the team with a relatively healthy squad. The match is expected to favor Al-Hilal, who have remained unbeaten in the Saudi Pro League this season. Their recent form includes a 5-3 victory over Al-Shabab and three clean sheets in their last six games. Al-Najma, however, have struggled throughout the campaign, scoring just 22 goals in 24 matches and failing to find the net in three of their last seven outings. Their away record is particularly poor, with only two points earned from a possible 36 in road games. Al-Hilal’s attacking prowess, highlighted by Ruben Neves’ 10 goals in 22 appearances, should pose a significant threat to Al-Najma’s defense. The visitors’ inability to score consistently could prove costly against one of the league’s strongest teams.#saudi_pro_league #al_najma #al_hilal #ruben_neves #mohammed_al_yami
