Match prediction
Al Ittihad vs. Navbahor Prediction, Starting11, Player Analysis, Key Player AFC Champions League Round of 16
Al Ittihad vs. Navbahor Prediction, Starting11, Player Analysis, Key Player AFC Champions League Round of 16
Introduction:
In the recent opening leg clash between Al Ittihad and Navbahor, the Saudi Pro League champions, Al Ittihad, failed to capitalize on their possession dominance, securing just one shot on target and failing to score for only the second time in the competition. Despite this, coach Marcelo Gallardo finds encouragement in their solid defensive form, having kept a clean sheet in their previous four competitive games.
On the other side, Navbahor, with a strategy of frustrating the opposition, secured a goalless draw in the first leg, marking their first clean sheet at home since matchday two. The Uzbek side, managed by Samvel Babayan, has shown resilience away from home, remaining unbeaten as visitors in the competition.
Al Ittihad vs. Navbahor Live Coverage Channels:
Team Performances:
Al Ittihad boasts a 100% home record in the Champions League this season, outscoring opponents by a combined margin of 6-1 in three contests. However, history shows that they’ve been knocked out of the opening Champions League knockout phase only once. Notably, they have never lost a home match against a team from Uzbekistan in the tournament.
Navbahor, while seeking their first Champions League triumph against a Saudi Arabian side, has never lost an away fixture against a Saudi Pro League club this century. Their recent away form has seen them go unbeaten as visitors in the current competition.
Team News:
Al Ittihad faces the absence of key players like Karim Benzema, Ahmed Bamsaud, Ahmed Sharahili, Abdullah Al-Jadaani, Luiz Felipe, and Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti due to various reasons. Goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf, having made only one stop in the opening leg, provides stability at the back.
Navbahor introduced four new faces in the starting XI in the first leg, aiming to disrupt Al Ittihad’s rhythm. Goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov had a relatively quiet game but will be crucial in maintaining a solid defensive stance.
Possible Starting Lineups:
Al Ittihad:
- Goalkeeper: Abdullah Al-Mayouf
- Defenders: Al-Sqoor, Hegazi, Kadesh, Al-Olayan
- Midfielders: Kante, Fabinho, Al-Ghamdi
- Forwards: Romarinho, Hamdallah, Al-Amri
Navbahor:
- Goalkeeper: Utkir Yusupov
- Defenders: Boltaboev, Ivanovic, Dokic, Sayfiev
- Midfielders: Ismoilov, Hamrobekov
- Forwards: Sobirzhonov, Iskanderov, Jiyanov; Tabatadze
Key Players for Al Ittihad:
- Abdullah Al-Mayouf (Goalkeeper): The experienced goalkeeper has been a solid presence at the back, contributing to Al Ittihad’s recent defensive success.
- Romarinho (Forward): A vital attacking force, Romarinho brings flair and goal-scoring prowess to the team. His performance will be crucial in breaking down Navbahor’s defense.
- N’Golo Kante (Midfielder): Known for his ball-winning abilities and versatility, Kante plays a pivotal role in the midfield. His work rate and distribution will be essential for Al Ittihad.
Key Players for Navbahor:
- Utkir Yusupov (Goalkeeper): As the last line of defense, Yusupov’s shot-stopping skills will be critical in thwarting Al Ittihad’s attacking attempts.
- Asad Sobirzhonov (Midfielder): A key presence in the midfield, Sobirzhonov’s ability to control the game and contribute offensively will be crucial for Navbahor’s strategy.
- Jamshid Iskanderov (Forward): Iskanderov’s goal-scoring prowess makes him a potent threat. Navbahor will rely on him to find the back of the net and create opportunities.
Dream11 Prediction Team for Al Ittihad vs. Navbahor:
Goalkeeper:
- Abdullah Al-Mayouf (Al Ittihad)
Defenders: 2. Al-Sqoor (Al Ittihad)
- Hegazi (Al Ittihad)
- Ivanovic (Navbahor)
Midfielders: 5. N’Golo Kante (Al Ittihad)
- Fabinho (Al Ittihad)
- Asad Sobirzhonov (Navbahor)
- Ismoilov (Navbahor)
Forwards: 9. Romarinho (Al Ittihad)
- Hamdallah (Al Ittihad)
- Jamshid Iskanderov (Navbahor)
Captain: Romarinho (Al Ittihad)
Vice-Captain: Asad Sobirzhonov (Navbahor)
Conclusion:
The second leg promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Al Ittihad seeking redemption and Navbahor aiming to continue their resilient away form. The clash between Saudi Arabian and Uzbek sides adds an intriguing dimension to the AFC Champions League Round of 16, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts worldwide.
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