Concern Over Dembele's Medical Tests Ahead of Youth Clash The coaching staff of Ettifaq, led by Saad Al-Shehri, is awaiting the results of medical tests conducted on French forward Moussa Dembele to assess his readiness for an upcoming match against Al-Shabab. The 29-year-old striker, who has been a key player for Ettifaq this season, experienced pain that has raised concerns about his ability to participate in the Saudi Roshan League fixture. Dembele has been a significant contributor to Ettifaq's campaign, appearing in 13 matches and scoring five goals while providing one assist in 1025 minutes of play. The team is set to face Al-Shabab in the 25th round of the league on Saturday evening at 10 p.m. Ettifaq currently sits in seventh place with 38 points, aiming to strengthen its position in the standings. Al-Shabab, meanwhile, is in 13th place with 25 points and hopes to improve its standing ahead of the season's critical phase. The potential absence of Dembele has sparked worries for Ettifaq ahead of its next match against Al-Hazm. Additionally, the club is close to renewing the contract of Dutch midfielder Wijnaldum for two more seasons, pending approval of financial sustainability. However, the renewal process faces obstacles due to the club's high salary demands. Meanwhile, Al-Hilal has extended its league dominance with a 2-0 victory over Ettifaq, securing the top spot in the Saudi League. The team is also preparing for a match against Ettifaq, with a strong attacking lineup expected. Doubts remain about the participation of Dembele and another player, Al-Ghannam, due to injury concerns ahead of the clash against Al-Hilal. The Saudi League's winter transfer window has seen several developments, with updates on player movements shaping the competition.#al_hilal #al_shabab #saad_al_shehri #ettifaq #moussa_dembele
Al Ettifaq - Al Shabab prediction & tips 07.03.2026 Al Ettifaq will face Al Shabab in a crucial Saudi Pro League match on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 20:00 local time. The game, set to take place at the Al-Ettifaq Club Stadium, will mark Matchday 25 of the league season. Al Ettifaq currently ranks 7th in the standings with 38 points, while Al Shabab sits in 13th place with 25 points. Both teams are motivated to secure valuable points, with Al Shabab aiming to avoid relegation. The betting prediction favors an away win for Al Shabab, with odds of 2.15 at Paripesa. This outcome is considered attractive due to recent defensive vulnerabilities in both teams. Additionally, a bet on both teams to score is recommended at 1.55, as both sides have struggled defensively. Al Ettifaq’s recent form includes a 3-1 defeat to Al Hazem, while Al Shabab suffered a 5-3 loss to Al-Hilal SFC, highlighting their defensive issues. Al Ettifaq, managed by Saad Al Shehri, has a mixed record in their last five matches, with two wins and three losses. Their offensive output of 35 goals contrasts with 42 conceded, indicating defensive concerns. Despite a strong home record of six wins, four draws, and two defeats, the team’s recent setbacks may affect their performance. Al Shehri’s tactics focus on possession and attacking play, but the defensive lapses have raised questions about the backline’s reliability. Al Shabab, under manager Noureddine Zekri, has struggled with consistency, earning six wins, seven draws, and 11 defeats. Their 30 goals scored and 38 conceded reflect a lack of defensive stability, particularly in away matches. Zekri’s strategy emphasizes quick counterattacks, but this approach has been undermined by frequent defensive errors.#al_ettifaq #al_shabab #saad_al_shehri #noureddine_zekri #al_ettifaq_club_stadium
