A Saudi Professional League match is set for 01:30, featuring Al-Riyadh hosting Al-Ettifaq. The match holds significant importance, with Al-Riyadh fighting to avoid relegation and Al-Ettifaq aiming to solidify their mid-table position. Al-Riyadh, currently 14th with 8 points, is only a point away from the relegation zone. They have a strong home record, remaining unbeaten in their last five home games with an impressive defensive performance, conceding only 0.4 goals per match on average. However, the absence of their key midfielder could impact their midfield control. Al-Ettifaq, positioned 9th with 12 points, has struggled in their recent away matches, scoring only one goal in their last three away games. Furthermore, Al-Ettifaq will be without key players due to suspension, which could affect their defensive cohesion. Al-Riyadh has a historical advantage at home, winning three and drawing two of their last five home encounters against Al-Ettifaq. They are expected to leverage set-pieces, with a 28% scoring rate, to exploit the opponent's defensive weaknesses. The core of this match revolves around Al-Riyadh's home advantage and their desperate need to secure points for survival, contrasted by Al-Ettifaq's reliance on their squad to maintain their position. Al-Riyadh will rely on their strong home form and low goals conceded to get a result, while their set-piece proficiency could be key against Al-Ettifaq's defensive frailties. The absence of a key midfielder and possible aerial vulnerabilities could be an opening for Al-Ettifaq. Al-Ettifaq, while in a safe mid-table position, has faced difficulties in away games and will be dealing with defensive restructuring, with a 24% error rate in aerial clearances. The team will depend on the midfield play of Georginio Wijnaldum and the counter-attacking speed of Joao to pose a threat, but will have to overcome their squad issues. The match is set to be decided by Al-Riyadh's high-pressure tactics and set-piece opportunities and Al-Ettifaq's defensive approach and counterattacks. The outcome could significantly impact the relegation battle and the mid-table standings. Saudi Professional League 01:30 Al-Riyadh vs Al-Ettifaq Recommendation: Al-Ettifaq -0.25