The upcoming Saudi Clasico between Al Hilal and Al Ittihad carries extraordinary weight, intensified by Karim Benzema's seismic winter transfer from the defending champions to the league-leading Al Hilal. This fixture, a historic clash between Riyadh and Jeddah, is now a direct confrontation with Benzema facing his former teammates.
Al Hilal, top of the Roshn Saudi League, aims to solidify its title bid, while seventh-placed Al Ittihad seeks to play spoiler and prove its strength post-Benzema. The French star's move has added a deeply personal narrative to this already fierce rivalry.
Since Benzema's departure, Al Ittihad has shown resilience. New signing Yousef En Nesyri has made an immediate impact, contributing to a run of 13 goals in three games, including AFC Champions League victories. The team publicly downplays the emotional angle, but the desire to get one over their former captain will be a powerful motivator.
For Benzema and Al Hilal, the match is a chance to justify the high-profile switch. The striker, who scored a hat-trick on his debut, will be desperate to impress against his old club and edge his new side closer to the title. This Clasico promises not just points, but a dramatic new chapter in Saudi football history.