Al-Hilal returns to action this Thursday as they host Al-Feiha at the Kingdom Arena. With the Saudi Pro League title race heating up, Simone Inzaghi’s side knows that anything less than a victory could jeopardize their lead at the top of the table.
Pressure Mounting at the Top
The league leaders enter Matchday 16 under significant pressure following Al-Nassr’s 2-1 away win against Dhamk. With Cristiano Ronaldo once again on the scoresheet, Al-Nassr has closed the gap to just four points. A slip-up tonight would give the chasing pack a massive boost in the race for the championship.
Predicted Lineup: Inzaghi Goes All Out
Simone Inzaghi is expected to field his strongest possible XI to ensure the three points. The partnership between Darwin Núñez and Marcos Leonardo has been the talk of the league, and fans are eager to see the duo in action again.
Predicted XI: Al Yami; Hamad Al-Yami, Pablo Marí, Al-Tombakti, Theo Hernández; Milinković-Savić, Rúben Neves; Malcom, Kanno, Darwin Núñez, and Marcos Leonardo.
Marcos Leonardo remains the focal point of the attack, with Inzaghi praising the Brazilian’s tactical flexibility and chemistry with Núñez.
The Kaio César to Corinthians Saga
Off the pitch, negotiations between Al-Hilal and Corinthians for the transfer of Kaio César are in the final stages. While the deal is considered “advanced,” the Brazilian’s departure has been temporarily delayed.
Inzaghi has opted to include Kaio César in the squad for the next two fixtures to provide depth during this crucial stretch. The winger is expected to travel to Brazil to sign with the Timão only after fulfilling these immediate commitments in Saudi Arabia.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
