The 2025-26 Roshn Saudi League is set to captivate fans as two of its fiercest contenders, Al Ittihad and Al Hilal, gear up for their highly anticipated clash, the first Saudi Clasico of the season. Scheduled for October 24, 2025, in Jeddah, this match comes with significant stakes and expectations for both teams.
This season introduces new leadership for both clubs, with Al Ittihad appointing Sergio Conceicao as their manager and Al Hilal bringing in Italian coach Simone Inzaghi. Conceicao, who is stepping into his second league game following a draw against Al Fayha, faces the challenge of leading his team to success in a fierce rivalry. Meanwhile, Inzaghi has already made waves, guiding Al Hilal to victory in the FIFA Club World Cup earlier in the season, setting a high bar for his league campaign.
In league performance, Al Hilal started the season at a slower pace, marked by two wins and two draws in their first four matches. However, they have been gaining momentum, particularly with impressive victories such as a commanding win over Al Ettifaq and a remarkable performance in the AFC Champions League, maintaining a perfect record. Key player Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has emerged as a crucial figure for Al Hilal, boasting one goal and five assists in nine encounters against Al Ittihad and earning multiple Man of the Match accolades.
Al Ittihad also has notable players to watch, with Karim Benzema standing out with five career goals against Al Hilal, including four in the last three Clasico meetings. Al Hilal’s Malcom is equally impressive, having contributed eight goals in ten matches against Al Ittihad, showcasing his capability to change the course of the game.
The significance of this Clasico extends beyond just the match itself; it embodies the drive for dominance within the Saudi Pro League. With Al Ittihad struggling near the lower end of the table as the defending champions, the pressure is particularly intense for Conceicao to secure victory and seize an opportunity to break a streak of losses against Al Hilal, aiming for consecutive wins for the first time since 2016.
As the teams prepare to battle it out, the atmosphere at the Alinma Stadium is expected to be electric. The clash will not only highlight the impressive skills of individual players but also showcase the tactical strategies of both coaches. Fans and analysts are eager to see whether Conceicao can pivot the narrative in his favor or if Inzaghi will maintain Al Hilal’s prevailing dominance. The stage is set for an exhilarating match, with all eyes focused on Jeddah this Friday.