The Saudi Pro League returns to the SHG Arena this Friday, February 13, 2026, as Al Shabab hosts Al Ahli in a high-stakes Matchday 22 encounter. With both teams desperate for points to solidify their season objectives, the clash promises to be a pivotal moment in the 2025-26 campaign.
Match Details and Kickoff Time
The match is scheduled to kick off at 1:55 PM local time (Saudi Arabia). Fans in the United States can catch the action live via streaming platforms like DAZN, while international viewers can follow real-time updates through major sports networks including ESPN and BBC Sport.
Team Form and League Standings
Entering this fixture, the two sides find themselves at opposite ends of the table. Al Ahli currently holds the 4th position, trailing the league leaders by just three points. They boast one of the most disciplined defensive records in the league and remain unbeaten in their last several outings.
In contrast, Al Shabab has struggled for consistency this season, currently sitting in 13th place. Despite their lower ranking, Al Shabab has historically been a “bogey team” for Al Ahli, often securing results against the odds when playing at home.
Key Team News: Demiral Sidelined
Al Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle has confirmed a significant blow to his defensive lineup. Merih Demiral has been officially excluded from the squad for today’s match. Jaissle noted that the decision was made to allow the Turkish international sufficient time to complete his recovery from a recent injury. Reports also suggest a second unnamed foreign player has been left out of the traveling party, forcing Al Ahli to rely on their squad depth.
Head-to-Head (H2H) Statistics
The historical rivalry between these two giants is remarkably balanced. According to all-time records:
- Total Matches: 49 direct meetings since 2005.
- Al Shabab Wins: 20
- Al Ahli Wins: 15
- Draws: 14
- Average Goals: 3.06 goals per match, suggesting a high-scoring affair is likely.
In their most recent meeting on October 17, 2025, the teams played out a 1-1 draw. However, Al Shabab secured a convincing 3-1 victory in their last home game against Al Ahli in May 2025.
Match Prediction
While Al Ahli enters as the favorite due to their superior league position and defensive solidity, the absence of Demiral could provide Al Shabab with the opening they need. Betting markets currently lean toward an away win or a draw (X2), but Al Shabab’s historical home advantage at the SHG Arena makes them a dangerous underdog.
Stay tuned for live score updates and post-match analysis as the Saudi Pro League title race heats up.