Domestic action finally marks its return after players returned from their respective international duties. Concerning the Saudi Pro League, the best of the best clash awaits ardent fans who will see Al Nassr travel to Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Stadium to face fellow Riyadh-based rivals Al Shabab on Friday, October 18.

Al Nassr has been enjoying themselves lately, courtesy of the Stefano Pioli era which has been in full swing. The Italian coach has inspired his team to elevate their game. Interestingly, the last game before the international break saw the Knights of the Najd secure an emphatic 3-0 win over Al Orobah. They are currently placed third in the table with 14 points in hand.

On the other hand, Al Shabab isn’t entering this fixture in high spirits, having endured a narrow defeat against Damac. However, that doesn’t deny the fact of how hard Vítor Pereira’s side has been working in the league. They sit in fourth place, just behind Al Nassr with 12 points. Certainly, they would be looking to make things even in this derby clash.

Al Shabab Vs Al Nassr: Team news

Injuries

Al Shabab

Vítor Pereira isn’t facing any kind of suspension or injury issues only for the fact that Fahad Al-Muwallad will again miss action. The star winger is currently nursing an unknown injury and remains out until further notice. In the meantime, the rest of the squad will look to its best against Cristiano Ronaldo and Co.

Al Nassr

Sami Al Najei remains a doubt to face Al Shabab. The midfielder missed the last clash due to a knee injury and it’s likely he will remain on the sidelines. Rest assured, Stefano Pioli is expected to have a fit squad. The former AC Milan boss earlier welcomed Marcelo Brozovic, who had missed a few games earlier due to a muscle injury.

Predicted lineups

Al Shabab [3-4-2-1]: Kim; Renan, Hoedt, Al Sharari; Al Sibyani, Guanca, Kanabah, Al Thani; Bonaventura, Aljuwayr; Carrasco

Al Nassr [4-2-3-1]: Bento; Al Ghanam, Ali Lajami, Simakan, Al Najdi; Ali Alhassan, Otavio; Angelo, Wesley, Sadio Mane; Cristiano Ronaldo

Head-to-head stats and prediction

Total matches: 47

Won by Al Nassr: 18

Won by Al Shabab: 16

Draw: 13

Al Shabab is indeed entering the fixture on quite a low note. Meanwhile, Al Nassr looks as mighty as ever. Hence, there’s no reason whatsoever for Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. to emerge victorious in this one. We reckon the score will be Al Shabab 1-2 Al Nassr.

Watch Al Shabab vs Al Nassr Saudi Pro League on TV Channels and live stream

Fans in the United States can catch the action live on Fox Soccer Plus and Fox Deportes. Meanwhile, live streaming is available on Fubo, Fox Sports.com, and the Fox Sports App. Likewise, UK supporters can tune in to DAZN UK.