Kessi Back in the Fold as Al-Ahli Jeddah Face Al-Khulud

Lineup changes ahead of the clash

German coach Matthias Jaissle named Al-Ahli Jeddah's starting XI for the Saudi Pro League's 16th round clash with Al-Khulud. With several players out and others returning, changes abound.

The Ivory Coast midfielder Frank Kessi returns to the starting XI after finishing his AFCON duties.

Ali Majrashi comes in to replace the suspended Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez.

Starting XI: Abdulrahman Al-Saibi; defense: Ali Majrashi, Merih Demiral, Mohammed Suleiman, Zakaria Houssawi; midfield: Valentin Atanjana, Enzo Miu, Frank Kessi; attack: Riyad Mahrez, Wenderson Galeno, Ivan Toni.

Benches include Abdullah Abdu, Firas Al-Breikan, Eid Al-Molad, Fahd Al-Rashidi, Matias Gonzalez, Mohammed Abdulrahman, Ziad Al-Jehani, Ryan Hamad, Saleh Abu Al-Shamat.

Al-Khulud lineups: Kuzani in goal; defense: Sultan, Gimbar, Binass, Ramzi Solan; midfield: Bakli, Al-Hosari, Hattan; attack: Al-Aliwi, Maziani, Enrique. Substitutes for the visitors remain ready to adjust as the match unfolds.

Note: The clash at the Saudi Pro League promises a tactical duel, with both sides aiming to tighten the backline and sharpen their counters.

Punchlines: If this lineup were a coffee, it would be a strong espresso— wakes the defense and your curiosity in one shot. And if they concede a goal, the defense can always blame the goalkeeper's fashion sense.