Derby Deliberation: Benzema and Bergwijn Face a Climate of Uncertainty in the Saudi Clasico
21 October 2025
Derby Spotlight: Benzema and Bergwijn on the Line
Saudi football fans are bracing for one of the season’s most intense clashes as Al-Ittihad hosts Al-Hilal on Friday night at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, in the sixth round of the Roshen Pro League.
The Clasico between the “Imam’s fortress” and the “Lions” carries extra weight this time, not only for the title race but also because both teams arrive at sensitive junctures in the campaign.
Al-Ittihad aim to regain balance after two straight league defeats, while Al-Hilal push to stay on top and sustain momentum.
At present, Al-Ittihad sit fifth with around 10 points from three wins, a draw and a defeat. Al-Hilal are fourth with 11 points from three wins and two draws.
Ahead of the big game, all eyes are on the medical report that will determine whether Benzema and Bergwijn will be fit to feature after missing the last match in the Asian Champions League against Al-Shorta.
The squad is set to decide after Tuesday training, with coaches granting the pair extra rest to maximize readiness for the clash.
Conceicao will lean heavily on their availability to shape the attacking plan against the blue giants, given how much their absence impacts the frontline play.
Earlier reports indicated Benzema and Bergwijn were left out of the Baghdad trip to recover physically and prepare for the massive duel in Jeddah.
Benzema’s fitness is a concern after a knock to the foot joint in the last league game versus Al-Fateh, while Bergwijn has been dealing with fatigue from a heavy schedule.
Fans have piled pressure on Benzema after a late missed penalty against Al-Fayha became a talking point, though it hasn’t single-handedly rewritten the league narrative.
It was noted that the team used an Asian warm-up win, beating Al-Shorta 4-1 in the ACL Elite group stage, to lift spirits and rebuild confidence ahead of the Clasico.
Al-Hilal arrive in good form, sitting fourth with 11 points, boasting a strong goal tally and a solid defensive record. Al-Ittihad also shows balanced numbers, with similar scoring and a cautious defensive profile.
Head-to-head history paints a balanced picture as the teams meet for the 55th time in Saudi Professional League history. Hilal leads with 27 wins to Al-Ittihad’s 11, with 16 draws; the visitors have a goal edge of 90 to 62.
The October showdown carries its own caution, as Al-Ittihad has not beaten the blue-half in October since 2016. The upcoming clash aims to change that narrative, though both sides know a single result won’t decide the title race, only set the tone for the stretch run.
Final notes: The medical verdict on Benzema and Bergwijn will shape the tactical approach and could tilt the balance in an already tense campaign.
Punchline 1: If the match needs a surprise, Benzema might just surprise himself with a finished move—on the way to the hotel after the full-time whistle.
Punchline 2: And if Bergwijn brings the energy, the only thing louder than the cheers will be the scoreboard clock finally agreeing with the crowd’s heartbeat.
