Al Ittihad vs Al Kholood Preview and Predicted Lineups

Al-Ittihad begin their Saudi Pro League 2026-27 campaign with an opening-round clash against Al-Kholood at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. The Jeddah giants enter the new season determined to bounce back after a disappointing fifth-place finish last year, with new head coach Jens Wissing leading a refreshed squad expected to challenge for the league title.

In this article, we take a detailed look at Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood, including team news, predicted lineups, key players, and tactical analysis ahead of this important Saudi Pro League encounter.

Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood Saudi Pro League Match Preview

Al-Ittihad head into the new season with renewed optimism following major changes during the summer. Jens Wissing's arrival has brought fresh tactical ideas, and the club will expect an immediate response after falling short of expectations in the previous campaign.

The Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood preview highlights the hosts' attacking strength, with Steven Bergwijn, Moussa Diaby, and Houssem Aouar expected to play key roles in breaking down opposition defences. Playing in front of their home supporters, Al-Ittihad are likely to dominate possession and create numerous goalscoring opportunities.

Al-Kholood, meanwhile, enter the season looking to end a difficult run of results. Des Buckingham is expected to prioritise defensive discipline and team structure as his side attempts to frustrate one of the league's strongest attacking units before looking for chances on the counterattack.

A winning start would provide valuable momentum for both clubs, but Al-Ittihad will see anything less than three points as a disappointing outcome on opening weekend.

Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood: Team News, Key Players

Al-Ittihad's Steven Bergwijn's pace and direct running on the wing could create numerous problems for the visitors, while Houssem Aouar's creativity will be vital in unlocking a compact defensive setup.

Despite their attacking quality, Al-Ittihad will have to manage defensive concerns, with injuries reducing options at the back heading into the opening fixture.

For Al-Kholood, goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani could be one of the busiest players on the pitch as he prepares to face constant pressure from the home side. 

Hattan Bahebri remains one of Al-Kholood's most dangerous attacking players, offering creativity and experience during transitions, while Enrique and Al-Aliwa will look to capitalise on any counterattacking opportunities.

Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood: Predicted Starting XI

Al-Ittihad and Al-Kholood are expected to field competitive lineups for this Saudi Pro League opener.

Al-Ittihad Predicted Starting XI (4-4-2)

• Goalkeeper: Predrag Rajkovic
• Defenders: Simic, Hassan Kadesh, Mario Mitaj, Al-Julaydan
• Midfielders: Al-Nashri, Danilo Pereira, Houssem Aouar, Moussa Diaby
• Forwards: Youssef En-Nesyri, Steven Bergwijn

Al-Kholood Predicted Starting XI (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: Juan Pablo Cozzani
• Defenders: Al-Shahri, Shaquille Pinas, Norbert Gyomber, Utkus
• Midfielders: Kortajarena, Buckley, Al-Dosari
• Forwards: Hattan Bahebri, Enrique, Al-Aliwa

Watch Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood Live on tapmad

Watch every moment of Al-Ittihad vs Al-Kholood live on tapmad. Follow the opening Saudi Pro League action as Al-Ittihad begin their new campaign under Jens Wissing and Al-Kholood aim to produce a strong start under Des Buckingham.