Rotation and precision: Inzaghi’s smart plan for Al Hilal before the Elite Asia clash
8 February 2026
Rotation and ambition ahead of Elite Asia clash
Simone Inzaghi, head coach of Al Hilal, said ahead of the match against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai in the Elite Asian Champions League that tomorrow's game represents an important opportunity to keep players sharp.
Group leadership and rotation plan
Al Hilal have already sealed their Round of 16 berth, leading the group on 18 points after six matches.
Inzaghi explained at the pre-match press conference that rotation will be part of tomorrow's plan, bringing in some players to rest the fatigued ones, and noting that any changes would be a purely technical decision and could depend on today's training.
The decision to use substitutes is good news for those players eager to prove themselves for future matches.
He added that selecting players for Asia competition poses no issue for him, and that domestic league regulations set precise criteria for foreign players, which can make keeping a player in the squad tricky, not a mere technical choice.
Inzaghi also said the team aims to play well against Shabab Al Ahli Dubai despite qualification, focusing on maintaining the winning rhythm and using all available options within Al Hilal's ranks.
Al Hilal remains the only Saudi team without a defeat this season across domestic and continental competitions.
Caption: The bench will be watching closely, as every substitute could become a starter in the next big game.
Punchline 1: If Inzaghi's rotations were a sniper's shot, they'd hit the target every time—quiet, precise, and deadly in a good way.
Punchline 2: When the plan goes as planned, the fans bring the popcorn—the real tactical snack of the night.
