Following a dominant 3-0 victory over Al-Akhdoud, Al-Hilal is set to play its first home game of the Saudi Pro League 2024 at Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Stadium. In their upcoming fixture, Al-Hilal will take on Damac, looking to build on their strong start and reinforce their position at the top of the table with another win.
Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League’s current winners, enjoyed an unbeaten campaign last season, securing 31 wins and drawing three of their 34 matches. They finished with an impressive 96 points and 101 goals, far outpacing the second-placed team. They have already made their mark this season, sitting atop the table after their commanding win over Al-Akhdoud.
As they prepare for their home debut of the season against Damac, Al-Hilal will be keen to capitalize on their home advantage. They are determined to maintain their excellent form and deliver a decisive performance to please their fans and assert dominance.
Damac FC, currently in 14th place in the league standings, finished 10th last season with 41 points from 34 matches, narrowly missing out on an 8th-place finish claimed by Al-Shabaab. After a defeat to Al-Khaleej in their season opener, Damac is eager to recover and make a strong comeback.
Damac must produce a spirited and determined performance to challenge Al-Hilal in Riyadh. A victory in this match would lift their spirits and prove they can compete with the top teams in the league.
Kick-Off: Wednesday, 28 August 2024, at 11:30 PM IST
Location: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Saudi Arabia
Form:
Al-Hilal (all competitions): W-W-W-W-W
Damac (all competitions): L-D-L-D-D
Players to Watch
Aleksandar Mitrović (Al-Hilal): Aleksandar Mitrović, the Serbian striker, began his career at Teleoptik and Partizan before moving to Newcastle United in 2015. His impressive performances led to a loan move to Fulham, where he made a permanent transfer in 2018 after a standout stint. With over 173 appearances and 97 goals for Fulham, Mitrović’s goal-scoring prowess is well-documented. He joined Al-Hilal in 2023 and has continued his prolific form. An essential member of Serbia’s national squad, with 58 goals in 94 appearances. Mitrović will maintain Al-Hilal’s attacking edge as they play their season’s first home match of the season.
Nicolae Stanciu (Damac): Nicolae Stanciu, the Romanian attacking midfielder, began his professional career with Unirea Alba Iulia before moving on to clubs such as Sparta Prague, Al-Ahli, and Wuhan. Now 31, he wears the number 31 jersey for Damac, having joined the club in 2023. Stanciu has been a critical figure for the Romanian national team, scoring 15 goals in 74 appearances. Known for his technical skill, vision, and versatile play, he can be both an offensive midfielder and a winger. Stanciu’s creativity and leadership will be pivotal as Damac looks to make an impact and challenge Al-Hilal in their upcoming Saudi Pro League clash.
Match Facts
Al-Hilal has won their last five matches.
Damac needs in their previous five games.
Al-Hilal is coming off a victory against Al-Akhdoud.
Al-Hilal vs Damac FC: Betting Tips and Odds
Al-Hilal to Win: Given their recent form and firm performance, Al-Hilal is favored to secure a victory.
Mitrović to Score First: Aleksandar Mitrović is expected to be a key goal-scorer and is a strong candidate to score the opening goal.
Total Goals Over 3.5: With Al-Hilal’s attacking prowess and Damac’s need to catch up, a high-scoring game is anticipated.
Injury and Team News
Jorge Jesus will benefit from a fully fit squad, allowing him to select his most robust lineup for the match.
Damac FC has no injury concerns and will field a fully fit team for the upcoming fixture.
As the defending champions, Al-Hilal is determined to assert its dominance and strengthen its lead at the top. Expect them to deliver a commanding performance and secure a significant victory over Damac FC, bringing excitement to their supporters.
Prediction: Al-Hilal 5-1 Damac FC
Telecast Information for Al-Hilal vs Damac FC
India: Sony LIV, Sony Sports Network
UK: DAZN UK
US: FuboTV, FOX Sports App, FOX Deportes
Nigeria: StarTimes App, Sporty TV
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Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and football sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Football News Today, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for football, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.