The Roshn Saudi League 2025-26 is preparing for one of its most anticipated matches as Al-Ittihad vs Al-Hilal is set to take place in Jeddah on October 24, 2025.
The Saudi Clasico, which is widely anticipated, features two of the league’s heavyweights pitted against one another in a match where factors such as bragging rights, momentum, and the pride of overall superiority will weigh heavily on the clubs’ minds at this early point in the season.
Both clubs go into this game with opposing narratives. Al-Ittihad seek to find the consistency that has eluded them since changing managers, whereas Al-Hilal look to keep their record-breaking string of results going under new managerial direction.
New Managers, New Era for Saudi Football Giants
This Clasico heralds a new tactical era at both clubs. Sérgio Conceição has taken over Al-Ittihad, steering his team to just his second league match following a draw with Al Fayha. The Porto gaffer, understood to be an intense character who likes his football characterised by structures, will look forward to making an instant impression in his first Clásico.
That being said, Simone Inzaghi has already been in the headlines with Al-Hilal, leading the club to a FIFA Club World Cup victory before embarking on the league campaign. The Italian coach’s high-pressing attacking philosophy is already ingrained in the team and has been accepted by the supporters.
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This managerial confrontation provides an additional intriguing aspect to the Al-Ittihad vs Al-Hilal supremacy, with both tacticians set to leave their imprint in Saudi football.
Current League Form: Momentum vs Redemption
Al-Hilal’s Steady Climb
Following a cautiously paced beginning to the campaign two wins and two draws from their first four matches Al-Hilal have got into their stride. Their recent highlights are:
A comprehensive win over Al Ettifaq in the league. A clean sweep in the AFC Champions League, with a commanding win over Al Sadd. Midfielder Sergej Milinković-Savić has been crucial, registering one goal and five assists in nine career games against Al-Ittihad, solidifying his status as a big-game performer.
Al-Ittihad’s quest for stability
For defending title holders Al-Ittihad, the season has proved to be one of patience and adjustment. Following a slow beginning, the Jeddah giants are keen to bounce back. Winning this Clasico will be their first consecutive victories over Al-Hilal since 2016, and that fact adds that little bit of extra motivation for Conceição’s players.
Key Players to Watch: Stars Ready for the Spotlight
Al-Ittihad
Karim Benzema remains Al-Ittihad’s main man up front. The French forward has found the net five times against Al-Hilal, his best tally against any Saudi side, with four strikes in the previous three Clasico encounters. His guidance and ruthless finishing can prove to be the difference in this clash.
Al-Hilal
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Brazilian forward Malcom has been as influential for Al-Hilal, directly contributing eight goals (three assists and five goals) in his previous ten matches against Al-Ittihad. Sergej Milinković-Savić, with his dominant midfield presence, is always a threat and has won several Man of the Match awards this season.
Al-Ittihad vs Al-Hilal: More Than Just a Rivalry
The Saudi Clasico is much more than three points, it is a fight for dominance, respect and identity. For Al-Ittihad (currently lower in the table) it is one of several opportunities to get their season back on track. For Al-Hilal it is another opportunity to showcase their superiority under the new management and continue their winning ways.
The Alinma Stadium in Jeddah will be the venue for this thrilling encounter, with the mood likely to be as hot as the action on the pitch. Each tackle, pass, and goal will be amplified in this match that defies sport.
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