Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab Lineups: Confirmed Starting XI & Squad News

Confirmed Starting XIs: Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab

Al Ittihad

4-2-3-1

Coach

Al Shabab

4-3-3

Coach

Al Ittihad Starting XI

#	Player	Pos	Rating
#1	Predrag Rajković	G	8.9
#13	Muhannad Shanqeeti	D	7.6
#2	Danilo Pereira	D	7.9
#15	Hassan Kadesh	D	7.8
#12	Mario Mitaj	D	7.7
#7	N'Golo Kanté	M	7
#8	Fabinho	M	7.4
#27	Ahmed Al-Ghamdi	M	7.8
#34	Steven Bergwijn	M	7.5
#78	Roger Fernandes	M	7.3
#9	Karim Benzema	F	6.6

Al Shabab Starting XI

#	Player	Pos	Rating
#43	Marcelo Grohe	G	8
#66	Nawaf Al Ghulaimish	D	6.3
#2	Mohammed Al Shwirekh	D	6.7
#4	Wesley Hoedt	D	6.3
#31	Saad Yaslam Balobaid	D	6.6
#6	Faisal Al-Sibyani	M	6.8
#5	Ali Makki	M	7.1
#29	Yacine Adli	M	6.8
#8	Josh Brownhill	F	6.9
#37	Abdullah Matuq	F	7.1
#7	Unai Hernández	F	6.8

Expected Starting Formations & Tactical Outlook

As the Saudi Pro League 2026/27 season enters a pivotal phase, the lineup intelligence ahead of Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab has become one of the most searched tactical previews in the Roshn Saudi League. Based on verified squad data, training ground reports, and Sofascore player availability intelligence, here is the comprehensive starting XI breakdown for both clubs.

Al Ittihad Expected XI & Formation Analysis

Al Ittihad have demonstrated consistent tactical identity throughout the 2026/27 Roshn Saudi League campaign. With an expected high press and vertical attack philosophy typical of SPL top-half clubs, their formation shows no major rotation risk heading into this fixture. Their key defensive structure — anchored by experienced central defenders — has been one of the most resolute in the Saudi Pro League this campaign, conceding fewer than 1.2 goals per 90 minutes across their last 10 appearances.

Al Shabab Expected XI & Formation Analysis

Al Shabab enter this fixture with a clear tactical mandate from their coaching staff. Their squad composition, informed by Sofascore’s verified player tracking for Saudi Pro League 2026/27, suggests a disciplined mid-block approach designed to exploit transition opportunities. Notably, their attacking third has been increasingly productive in recent outings, averaging 2.1 shots on target per game across their last five Saudi Pro League appearances.

Key Players to Watch

In this Saudi Pro League matchup, the individual battles across the midfield corridor will be decisive. Both squads feature a blend of high-profile international recruits and domestically developed Saudi talent — a dynamic that has become central to the appeal of the Roshn Saudi League on the global stage. From the attacking zones, watch for the strikers’ movement off the ball to stretch defensive lines, while the wide areas will be contested aggressively as both teams seek to establish early rhythm.

Injury & Availability Updates

Squad availability heading into this fixture — as tracked through Sofascore’s official injury feed for Saudi Pro League matches — suggests both clubs are close to full strength. No major first-team absences have been confirmed as of the last official training session. Any late changes to the announced starting XI will be reflected in the official club communications via the Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) and broadcast partners including SSC Sports and DAZN.

Head-to-Head Record: Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab ✓ Sofascore Data

Based on all-time meetings in the Saudi Pro League (Roshn Saudi League), King’s Cup, and AFC Champions League Elite competitions, the historical head-to-head between Al Ittihad and Al Shabab reveals the following statistical profile across 42 official matches.

Head-to-head statistics sourced from Sofascore match intelligence for the Saudi Pro League 2026/27 season and historical SPL archives.

Last 5 Head-to-Head Encounters: Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab

The five most recent direct clashes between Al Ittihad and Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League and cup competitions reveal a clear competitive narrative heading into their next meeting.

Frequently Asked Questions — Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab