The Saudi Pro League continues to captivate football fans worldwide, and the clash between Al Hilal SFC vs Al Raed FC lineups promises to be another thrilling encounter. This article delves into the key aspects of this anticipated match, providing an in-depth analysis of potential lineups, player performances, and the broader context of the league.
Overview of Al Hilal SFC and Al Raed FC in 2025
Before delving into their specific lineups, it’s important to look at the broader picture of both teams in the 2024-2025 Saudi Pro League season.
Al Hilal SFC: The Blue Giants of Saudi Arabia
Al Hilal SFC has long been considered one of the powerhouses of Saudi football, consistently competing at the top of the SPL and making a significant impact in continental tournaments like the AFC Champions League. As of 2025, the team remains one of the most dominant forces in the league, boasting an impressive squad filled with world-class talent, both domestically and internationally.
The 2024/2025 season has seen Al Hilal strengthen their squad further, with high-profile signings such as Mauro Icardi and Sergej Milinković-Savić adding both depth and quality to the team. Under the management of Jorge Jesus, Al Hilal has adopted a versatile and attacking style of play, blending tactical flexibility with high-intensity football.
Current Form: As of 2025, Al Hilal SFC is pushing for the top spot in the SPL, consistently performing well both domestically and in regional competitions. Their depth in attack, including prolific forwards like Icardi and creative midfielders like Milinković-Savić, makes them a formidable side.
Al Raed FC: The Underdogs with Ambition
Al Raed FC, while not as globally renowned as Al Hilal, has consistently punched above its weight in the Saudi Pro League. Located in Buraidah, Al Raed is known for its resilient and hard-working style of football. While they may not boast the same high-profile players as their opponents, Al Raed has a history of making life difficult for top clubs.
In the 2024/2025 season, Al Raed is aiming to secure a mid-table finish and push for a spot in the AFC competitions. Their tactical approach is grounded in organization and counter-attacking, focusing on being solid defensively and exploiting spaces when transitioning into attack.
Current Form: Al Raed FC has been solid in the mid-table but has struggled to compete consistently against the top teams like Al Hilal. However, they are always a threat when playing against the bigger sides, relying on well-organized defenses and counter-attacks to create opportunities.
Key Players in the 2025 Season
For both teams, key players play a major role in their performance, and understanding their importance to the lineup is essential.
Key Players for Al Hilal SFC in 2025
Mauro Icardi: The Argentine striker is one of the marquee signings for Al Hilal. Known for his clinical finishing and movement in the box, Icardi has quickly adapted to Saudi football. His partnership with fellow forwards and creative players makes Al Hilal a dynamic attacking force.
Sergej Milinković-Savić: A towering figure in midfield, Milinković-Savić is both a defensive presence and an offensive powerhouse. His ability to dictate the tempo, deliver precise passes, and contribute with goals makes him a vital player for Al Hilal’s success.
André Carrillo: The Peruvian winger is known for his pace and dribbling ability. Carrillo’s ability to stretch the opposition and create chances from wide areas has been a constant threat in Al Hilal’s attack.
Salem Al-Dawsari: A key member of the national team and a key player for Al Hilal, Al-Dawsari’s creativity and ability to break down defenses make him a crucial component in the team’s offensive play.
Key Players for Al Raed FC in 2025
Marcos Guilherme: The Brazilian attacking midfielder is a creative spark in Al Raed’s lineup. His ability to link up play, create chances, and score goals is central to the team’s attacking setup.
Mohammed Al-Faraj: As the captain, Al-Faraj plays an important leadership role in midfield. His vision, passing range, and defensive work ethic make him a crucial player for Al Raed’s transition between defense and attack.
Thiago Neves: The Brazilian playmaker is known for his set-piece delivery and ability to unlock defenses with clever passes. He remains an influential figure in Al Raed’s attacking play.
Ahmed Al-Khaibari: A solid defender, Al-Khaibari’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions is vital to Al Raed’s ability to defend against strong attacking sides like Al Hilal.
Al Hilal SFC vs Al Raed FC: Expected Lineups for 2025
Based on their current squad strengths, tactics, and formations, here is a breakdown of the expected lineups for Al Hilal SFC and Al Raed FC for their 2025 clash in the Saudi Pro League.
Al Hilal SFC: Predicted Starting XI in 2025
Formation: 4-2-3-1 (Attacking)
Goalkeeper: Abdullah Al-Mayoof – Al Hilal’s experienced shot-stopper, known for his reliability and leadership at the back.
Right-back: Mohammed Al-Burayk – A key figure in Al Hilal’s defense, Al-Burayk combines strong defensive abilities with attacking runs on the right flank.
Center-back: Jiang Guangtai – The Chinese international offers composure and physicality at the back, forming a strong partnership in central defense.
Center-back: Ali Al-Bulaihi – A leader in defense, Al-Bulaihi provides aerial presence and tackles with precision.
Left-back: Yasser Al-Shahrani – A dynamic and tireless left-back, known for his pace and ability to contribute both in defense and attack.
Central Midfield: Sergej Milinković-Savić – The Serbian midfielder’s passing range, physicality, and vision make him an essential part of Al Hilal’s setup.
Central Midfield: André Carrillo – While primarily an attacking player, Carrillo’s work rate and tactical intelligence allow him to drop deeper into midfield and help control play.
Attacking Midfield: Salem Al-Dawsari – A key playmaker for Al Hilal, Al-Dawsari is expected to influence the game from a central attacking role.
Right Wing: Mauro Icardi – As a central striker, Icardi will be expected to lead the line and score goals for Al Hilal. He is a clinical finisher and will be central to Al Hilal’s attack.
Left Wing: Bafetimbi Gomis – Gomis provides physicality and experience, making him a dangerous player in aerial duels and a threat in counter-attacking situations.
Striker: Mauro Icardi – Icardi’s ability to find space in the box, combined with his clinical finishing, makes him a key figure in Al Hilal’s front line.
Al Raed FC: Predicted Starting XI in 2025
Formation: 4-4-2 (Defensive, Counter-Attacking)
Goalkeeper: Muhammad Al-Dosari – A reliable goalkeeper with quick reflexes and shot-stopping ability, Al-Dosari will have to be at his best to stop Al Hilal’s attacking force.
Right-back: Fahad Al-Muwallad – A solid defender who will need to focus on neutralizing the attacking threat from Al Hilal’s wingers.
Center-back: Ahmed Al-Khaibari – A defensive leader, Al-Khaibari’s role will be vital in preventing Al Hilal’s forwards from breaking through.
Center-back: David Simao – The experienced Portuguese center-back brings stability and organization to Al Raed’s defense.
Left-back: Ali Al-Zahrani – A full-back capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking situations.
Central Midfield: Mohammed Al-Faraj – Al-Faraj’s leadership and passing range will be key in transitioning from defense to attack.
Central Midfield: Thiago Neves – Neves’ ability to control the tempo and produce key passes will be important in dictating Al Raed’s offensive play.
Central Midfield: Marcos Guilherme – A player capable of linking the midfield and attack, Guilherme’s movement and dribbling can unlock Al Hilal’s defense.
Right Wing: Musa Al-Rawi – The winger’s pace and directness will make him a key player in counter-attacks.
Striker: Victor Zemba – Zemba will be the focal point in attack, looking to capitalize on any chances created by the midfield.
Striker: Rodrigo – A solid forward known for his ability to score goals in tight situations.
Tactics and Style of Play
Al Hilal: Al Hilal will likely control possession and play a high-tempo game, looking to dominate from the outset. Their attacking setup is built around Mauro Icardi and Salem Al-Dawsari, with Sergej Milinković-Savić pulling the strings in midfield.
Al Raed: In contrast, Al Raed will adopt a more defensive and counter-attacking approach. They will look to absorb pressure and exploit any spaces left by Al Hilal’s attacking players, with Thiago Neves and Marcos Guilherme orchestrating quick counter-attacks.
Final Thoughts
The clash between Al Hilal SFC vs Al Raed FC lineups promises to be a thrilling encounter. Al Hilal, with their star-studded lineup and attacking flair, will go into the match as favorites. However, Al Raed’s resilient approach and ability to play on the counter could make them a formidable opponent. Fans of both sides can expect high-intensity football, tactical battles, and potentially a closely contested game.
FAQs
What are Al Hilal’s chances of winning the 2025 SPL title?
Al Hilal is one of the favorites to win the 2024/2025 SPL title, given their strong squad, which includes high-profile players like Mauro Icardi and Sergej Milinković-Savić. Their consistent performances in domestic competitions, coupled with their tactical flexibility under manager Jorge Jesus, make them a top contender.
How has Al Hilal’s squad evolved in 2025?
In 2025, Al Hilal bolstered its squad with high-profile signings like Mauro Icardi and Sergej Milinković-Savić, alongside retaining their core players. The addition of experienced international players has made the team even more formidable in both domestic and continental competitions.
Who will be the manager of Al Hilal in 2025?
Jorge Jesus is the manager of Al Hilal in 2025. The Portuguese coach is known for his tactical acumen and has been instrumental in shaping the team’s offensive and defensive systems. Under his guidance, Al Hilal has become one of the most formidable teams in the SPL.
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