Union Clash with Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Thrilling Saudi League Showdown
Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, the only two teams with perfect records in the Saudi Pro League, will face off Friday in what promises to be the season's biggest match so far. Both clubs have won all three games and boast the league's most potent attacks, with Al-Nassr scoring 12 goals and Al-Ittihad netting 10.
The match carries extra weight given their recent history. Al-Nassr beat Al-Ittihad 2-1 in the Super Cup semifinal in Hong Kong at the start of the season, despite playing with 10 men after Sadio Mané's early red card. But Al-Ittihad got their revenge last season, winning both league meetings between the clubs.
Friday's clash at Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah kicks off at 8 PM UAE time (9 PM Saudi time). Al-Ittihad enters the match hoping for better performances despite their perfect record. The team hasn't quite hit the expected level yet, though they're optimistic about getting captain Karim Benzema back from injury. The French striker missed the last three matches but appears ready to return. However, they'll be without right-back Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti due to injury.
Al-Nassr comes into the game with more confidence after delivering impressive performances to match their results. They'll miss left-back Saad Al-Nasser through injury, but coach Luis Castro has capable replacements available to fill the gap.
The match represents a crucial early test for both title contenders. Al-Nassr currently leads the table and will look to maintain their perfect start, while Al-Ittihad wants to prove they can compete at the highest level after winning the league and cup double last season. With both teams' attacking firepower on display, fans can expect goals in what should be the most entertaining match of the young season.
Sara Khaled