Ittihad’s Comeback Hopes Rise as Clasico Looms: Bergwijn Back, Benzema Watch Intensifies

Return in sight as Bergwijn nears a comeback before Clasico

Al-Ittihad is on the verge of reclaiming one of its most dangerous weapons ahead of the highly anticipated Clasico against Al-Hilal, set for Friday in the Roshn Saudi Pro League. The clash unfolds at a time when consistency matters just as much as flair, and the home crowd in Jeddah will demand a statement performance from the reigning domestic favorites.

The Tigers will host their giants at the Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah, as Round Six of the Saudi Pro League heats up and the title race begins to take clearer shape. Fans are looking for a peak display as the season moves into its crucial stretch, with both clubs chasing momentum.

According to the Saudi daily Al-Youm, Ittihad are close to reintroducing Dutch winger Steven Bergwijn after recovering from a health setback that kept him out of the Asian Champions League group stage clash against Al-Shorta. The report underscores Bergwijn’s fitness restoration and his potential to bolster the squad’s attacking options ahead of the Clasico.

The article adds that Bergwijn has recovered and is ready to bolster the Jeddah club ahead of the Clasico, having completed his treatment and rehabilitation under the club’s medical staff. His return would give Ittihad a direct attacking outlet on the wings and a dynamic option for transitions, which could prove pivotal against a well-organized Hilal defense.

The Dutchman has taken part in team training sessions with the squad, paving the way for a natural return depending on his condition. His presence in training signals a measured, cautious rebuild rather than a rushed comeback, with the coaching staff prioritizing seamless integration into match tempo and rhythm.

Clash context, form, and Benzema’s status

The Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao is hoping to claim his first league win over Hilal since taking charge, in what promises to be a high-stakes domestic battle with title implications. The fixture has extra spice given Ittihad’s need to translate recent potential into a definitive result against a strong rival.

Conceicao’s early days with Ittihad included a draw with Al-Fayha in Round Five and a 4-1 Asia Cup win over Al-Shorta, reinforcing the belief that the team can blend compact defense with an efficient, efficient attacking outlet. The Asian victory provided a glimpse of the squad’s resilience under pressure and the coach’s willingness to press high and stay aggressive when in possession.

Entering the Clasico, Ittihad sit fifth on 10 points, one behind Hilal in fourth, while leaders Al-Nassr sit atop the table with 15 points. That proximity in the standings adds extra urgency to Friday’s clash, elevating the stakes for both sides and sharpening the competitive edge ahead of a long season’s stretch run.

Doubts linger about Karim Benzema’s readiness for the match, with Conceicao stating at the pre-match press conference that Benzema remains in rehabilitation and that the decision on his participation will be taken on game day. The situation adds a layer of drama to the buildup, as fans weigh the potential impact of the Ballon d’Or winner on Ittihad’s frontline balance.

The coach also expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters for their warmth and support since day one, noting the deep connection between the squad and a fanbase that expects consistent, high-level performances. He compared the club’s environment to Europe’s top outfits, while stressing that real progress comes from steady, sport-specific preparation and collective belief in the squad’s capacity to adapt and grow.

He further explained that selection will be based on readiness, with his pressing-heavy approach requiring peak fitness from every available player. The emphasis on intensity and tempo in daily training sessions reflects Conceicao’s belief that a demanding schedule rewards those who maintain superior physical conditioning and tactical clarity, even when squads are stretched by a congested calendar.

In his words, confidence rests with the whole group: “I trust every member of our squad, and we’ll move forward together.” The message is clear: opportunities will be earned through form, discipline, and collective effort rather than mere names on a roster.

Heading into the Clasico: form, history, and what’s at stake

Al-Ittihad enter the Clasico with a heavier spotlight on their shoulders after a challenging run in recent league fixtures, including a defeat to Al-Nassr and a draw with Al-Fayha that contributed to their mid-table position and mounting scrutiny from fans and media alike. The expectation is for a strong response in this marquee fixture, signaling a renewed commitment to reclaiming the league crown.

A victory over Hilal would mark a significant turning point, restoring confidence among players and supporters and reinforcing the club’s status as a title contender after last season’s triumph. The win would also serve as a public reminder that the team possesses the quality and resolve required to compete with the league’s strongest side over a full campaign.

Historically, Ittihad has had recent success against Hilal in domestic play, including a 4-1 league victory in February of last season that ended a long streak without a win against the rival. That 1415-day drought was a powerful symbol for the club, and the subsequent Cup prowess in January—advancing past Hilal on penalties—added a complex but hopeful narrative to the rivalry’s recent chapters.

The current objective remains consistent: reaffirm Ittihad’s superiority in direct clashes and demonstrate that their recent hiccups are temporary, not a trend. A win would deepen the team’s belief that they can dictate terms in head-to-head matchups and restore the defensive and offensive balance that defines their best performances.

With Benzema in the mix or not, Friday’s match is framed as a test of character for Conceicao’s group and a test of Hilal’s resilience as they seek to maintain their own momentum in a league loaded with talent. The Clasico promises to be a defining moment in this phase of the season, a gauge of where both teams stand and a preview of the battles to come in the months ahead.