Big Kickoff Shake-Up: Saudi Pro League Schedules Hilal and Ittihad Ahead of November Fixtures
11 November 2025
New Decision
The Saudi Pro League Clubs Association announced a scheduling adjustment for the Al Hilal and Al Ittihad matches in Week 9. The November international window means the national team will play two friendlies against Ivory Coast and Algeria on the 13th and 18th, as part of preparation for the Arab Cup 2025 in Qatar in December/January.
Tough Competition
Al Ittihad finds itself in a difficult position, sitting eighth with 11 points. The club that once dominated the league has seen its form dip this season, raising concerns about its title defense. A managerial change from Laurent Blanc to Sergio Conceicao and injuries to key attackers have contributed to the current crunch.
While clubs like Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Ahli push for glory, Ittihad faces a stern test to reclaim its former dominance, with star players needing to rediscover their best form and the squad seeking cohesion.
The situation is further complicated by a string of injuries that have disrupted the spine of the team, making it harder to sustain consistency at the top of the table.
Strong Challenges
Conceicao faces a multifaceted challenge at Ittihad, a test many European coaches would envy. The Portuguese coach must restore confidence in the dressing room, rebuild a defense that has looked vulnerable, and manage senior players with strong personalities.
The pressure from fans and media is intense, and results quickly will be seen as a barometer of the coach’s authority and the team’s readiness to compete with the league’s top clubs.
As the league heats up and rival teams continue to strengthen, Conceicao will need to deliver rapid returns to keep the club in serious title contention and to prove that his methods can work in the Saudi Pro League’s demanding environment.
And if a plan is a foot, the defense had better bring one too, or the Emirates Cup will look quaint next to this season’s campaign. If timing is everything, these openings will decide who truly stays on top. Punchlines aside, the ball still loves a good bounce, especially when it bounces back into the net for the other team.
