Match outlook: Al Ahli expected to dominate at Alinma Stadium
Al Ahli return to Jeddah with momentum and an unmistakable sense of purpose as they prepare to host Al Hazm on February 5, 2026. The hosts arrive in excellent form, unbeaten in the vast majority of recent outings and packing a domestic record that reads like a promotion to contention: 13 wins, five draws and a single loss from 19 matches, 44 points and a healthy goal difference. Their attacking punch has been on full display in January, with emphatic wins and multiple-goal outings that have energized their fanbase at the 64,200-capacity Alinma Stadium. A 0-0 draw with Al Hilal was the only recent hiccup, and even in that match defensive solidity was on show — Al Ahli boast double-digit clean sheets and a stingy goals-against column away from home.
Al Hazm head into this fixture with a more mixed storyline. Sitting 11th with 21 points and a porous defensive ledger, their season has been punctuated by draws and heavy defeats alike. Recent results underline inconsistency: a draw at Al Fateh and a heavy 4-0 loss to Al Shabab bookend a run that offers glimpses of resilience but also exposes defensive frailties. Their away form has been particularly troublesome, and conceding has been a recurring theme across the campaign. That pattern will be tested severely against an Al Ahli side that has found the net prolifically at home.
Tactical battle and formlines
This feels less like a tactical chess match and more like a test of pedigree. Al Ahli’s balance between attack and defence is reflected in their numbers: a high volume of shots, frequent danger-area entries and double-digit clean sheets. Al Hazm’s metrics paint a different picture — fewer chances created and a defence that has leaked goals both at home and on the road. Historical context adds weight to the hosts’ case: the two met earlier this season with Al Ahli coming away 2-0, and that result still resonates when assessing likely game flow.
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Betting suggestion: Best market and pick
Bookmakers strongly favour the home side (odds around 1.20). Given Al Ahli’s consistency, home attacking form and Al Hazm’s defensive vulnerability, the clearest value is to side with Al Ahli in the 1X2 market. Backing Al Ahli to win is the most logical single-market play; if you prefer an angle on goals, the evidence also supports a match with multiple goals, but the primary recommendation is a straight home win.
