The AFC Champions League Elite reaches its semi-final stage with a blockbuster clash between Al Hilal vs Al Ahli. Both Saudi giants are aiming for continental glory, and this encounter is set to deliver high drama as the teams bring fierce rivalry and star-studded lineups into one of Asia’s biggest footballing stages.
Match Details
| Match | Al Hilal vs Al Ahli |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, April 29, 2025 |
| Time | 6:30 PM UTC (1:30 PM ET) |
| Venue | King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah |
| Competition | AFC Champions League Elite – Semi-Final |
Head-to-Head Record
| Total Meetings | Al Hilal Wins | Al Ahli Wins | Draws | Last Meeting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 30 | 12 | 11 | Al Hilal 3-1 Al Ahli (Pro League, Jan 2025) |
Insight:
Al Hilal have historically dominated this rivalry, winning over half of their past encounters. They also came out on top earlier this year with a commanding performance.
Team Form and Standings
| Team | Domestic Position | Last 5 Matches | Last Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Hilal | 1st (Pro League) | W-W-W-D-W | Won 2-1 vs Al Nassr |
| Al Ahli | 3rd (Pro League) | W-L-W-W-D | Drew 2-2 vs Al Ettifaq |
Analysis:
Al Hilal remain unbeaten in 2025 and continue to show their elite form across all competitions.
Al Ahli have improved recently but continue to struggle against top-tier opposition defensively.
Key Players to Watch
Al Hilal
- Aleksandar Mitrović – Prolific striker, key goal threat with physical presence.
- Sergej Milinković-Savić – Central midfield dynamo controlling pace and distribution.
- Salem Al-Dawsari – Creative winger capable of unlocking defenses with flair.
Al Ahli
- Roberto Firmino – Veteran forward with top-level experience and composure in front of goal.
- Franck Kessié – Midfield enforcer, crucial in duels and ball recoveries.
- Édouard Mendy – Commanding goalkeeper who can make match-defining saves.
Tactical Preview
| Team | Formation | Style of Play | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Hilal | 4-3-3 | High press and width | Depth in attack, control in midfield | Occasional vulnerability in transition |
| Al Ahli | 4-2-3-1 | Structured and balanced | Quick counters, technical quality | Defensive fragility under pressure |
Tactical Insight:
Al Hilal will press high and aim to dominate possession, leveraging their midfield superiority and wide players. Al Ahli may opt for a more reactive game plan, using Firmino to drop deep and link up play while relying on Kessié for stability.
Predictions
| Category | Prediction |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Score | Al Hilal 2-1 Al Ahli |
| First Goal Scorer | Aleksandar Mitrović (Al Hilal) |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 Goals |
| Possession Split | 61% Al Hilal – 39% Al Ahli |
| Expected Key Moment | Mitrović header from a corner |
| Man of the Match | Sergej Milinković-Savić (Al Hilal) |
Match Insight:
While Al Ahli have the firepower to challenge, Al Hilal’s superior form, experience, and midfield control give them the edge. Expect a hard-fought but narrow victory for the league leaders.
How to Watch
- United States: Paramount+ / CBS Sports Golazo
- Saudi Arabia: Shahid VIP / SSC Sports
- United Kingdom: TrillerTV+
- India: Fancode
- International: AFC.tv (depending on territory)
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
