Al-Nassr vs Al Raed

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As the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season kicks off, Al-Nassr and Al Raed are set to face off at the iconic King Saud University Stadium on August 22, 2024, at 7 pm UK time. This match marks the beginning of what promises to be an intense season for both teams, each with distinct ambitions and challenges. Let's dive into the details of this exciting matchup.

Match Preview: Al-Nassr's Redemption Journey

Al-Nassr, a team synonymous with success, enters this season with a point to prove. Last season, they finished as runners-up in the Saudi Pro League, amassing an impressive 82 points. However, their inability to clinch any silverware left a bitter taste, particularly after a 14-point gap from the champions, Al-Hilal. The Knights of Najd aim to kickstart their campaign with a victory, eager to put their recent Saudi Super Cup heartbreak behind them.

In the Super Cup final, Al-Nassr experienced a crushing 4-1 defeat against Al-Hilal. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s early goal that gave them the lead, they couldn’t withstand the onslaught from the Blue Waves, who scored three goals within 18 minutes in the second half. Ronaldo’s visible frustration at the end of the match reflects the hunger for redemption that the team will carry into this fixture.

Al-Nassr's strength lies in their formidable attacking trio of Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Talisca. This star-studded lineup is expected to lead their charge this season, beginning with a strong performance against Al Raed. The team’s defensive solidity, bolstered by the return of Marcelo Brozovic, who missed the Super Cup final, adds to their overall resilience.

Al Raed: Aiming to Upset the Odds

Al Raed, who finished 12th last season with 37 points, enter this match with memories of a rare victory at Al Awal Park still fresh in their minds. In March, they stunned Al-Nassr with a 3-1 victory, becoming one of only two teams to take all three points from the venue. Goals from Karim El Berkaoui, Mohamed Fouzair, and Amir Sayoud sealed that famous win, showcasing their potential to cause upsets.

However, their form towards the end of the previous season was inconsistent, with only three wins in their last 11 matches. The offseason brought changes, including the departure of coach Igor Jovicevic and the appointment of Odair Hellmann. The Brazilian tactician will be eager to begin his tenure with a statement win against a powerhouse like Al-Nassr.

Al Raed's chances will largely depend on their defensive organization and the ability of their forwards to capitalize on counter-attacks. El Berkaoui, the team’s top scorer with 13 goals last season, will be the key figure in their attack, supported by new arrival Saleh Al-Amri, who is set to make his debut.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

Al-Nassr and Al Raed have faced off numerous numerous times, with Al-Nassr holding a clear advantage historically. However, recent encounters have been more competitive, with Al Raed managing to secure draws and a rare win in their last few meetings.

• Al-Nassr's Recent Form (All Competitions): WDLDDL
• Al Raed's Recent Form (All Competitions): LDWDDL

Predicted Lineups

Al-Nassr:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Goalkeeper: Bento
• Defense: Al Ghanam, Alawjami, Laporte, Telles
• Midfield: Al-Khaibari, Otavio
• Attack: Yahya, Talisca, Mane, Ronaldo

Al Raed:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Goalkeeper: Sunyur
• Defense: Al Dossary, Gonzalez, Al Dosari, Al-Jayzani
• Midfield: Fouzair, Hazazi, Normann
• Attack: Sayoud, El Berkaoui, Al-Ghamdi

Prediction: A Tough Battle with Al-Nassr Favored

While Al Raed has shown they can be a thorn in Al-Nassr's side, the home team’s determination to bounce back from their recent disappointment is likely to drive them to a commanding victory. With a star-studded lineup and the desire to start their league campaign on the right foot, Al-Nassr is expected to come out on top.

Prediction: Al-Nassr 3-1 Al Raed