On April 1, 2025, at 18:00 GMT, Al Ittihad and Al Shabab are scheduled to square off the much awaited King Cup semi-final game. The historic King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia will host the game with a capacity of 62,345 intended to generate an exciting environment for this pivotal football event. Although the game’s referee is yet unknown, VAR will be used to guarantee correct review of important decisions. As they fight for a place in the final, this semi-final phase of the King Cup sets two strong sides against one other.
Leading Saudi Pro League team Al Ittihad, headed by top scorer Karim Benzema, shows their supremacy all through the season. Though via penalties, their recent quarterfinal triumph over heavyweights Al Hilal highlights their fortitude in high-stakes football games. Al Shabab has been in great form, sending Al Feiha in the last round, but they have a tough challenge against a confident Al Ittihad side that has previously defeated them once this season in league action.
Betting Tips and Match Insights
Get ready for an in-depth look at the Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab prediction today as we break down the critical factors influencing this semi-final showdown. This part will walk you through the head-to-head history and recent performance of the teams, so providing useful information for wise betting judgments. The fact that both sides have shown tenacity on their most recent games prepares the ground for a fierce competition. Knowing their form and prior conference attendance will help you to better estimate what April 1, 2025 will bring. Let’s explore the figures and patterns that might affect the result of this King Cup collision.
Al Ittihad Results
Al Ittihad has been a force to consider this season especially with their flawless run in most recent games. Their triumph over Al Hilal in the league is notable as evidence of their under pressure performance capability. Karim Benzema is spearheading the charge, hence the Tigers are ready for glory in this home game.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 13.03.25 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Riyadh | 2-1 | W |
| 06.03.25 | SPL | Al Qadisiya vs Al Ittihad | 1-1 | D |
| 02.03.25 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Okhdood | 1-1 | D |
| 26.02.25 | SPL | Al Khaleej vs Al Ittihad | 1-1 | D |
| 22.02.25 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Hilal | 4-1 | W |
The Tigers have been solid, turning in two victories and three draws in their last five games. Al Hilal’s 4-1 hammering shown they could rule elite opposition and was their best performance. The three successive draws underline their defensive stability but also point to a small drop in finishing. Playing at home, where they have traditionally shown great strength, increases their prospects against Al Shabab. Still a major weapon for breaching defenses is Benzema’s goal-scoring style.
Al Shabab Results
Driven by Abderrazak Hamdallah’s recent league hat-trick, Al Shabab have been on an increasing trend. Though they have struggled against Al Ittihad this season, their attacking ability is clearly outstanding. This semi-final provides an opportunity to flip the tide against a known enemy.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 13.03.25 | SPL | Al Shabab vs Al Orubah | 6-0 | W |
| 07.03.25 | SPL | Al Nassr vs Al Shabab | 2-2 | D |
| 28.02.25 | SPL | Al Shabab vs Damac | 2-0 | W |
| 25.02.25 | SPL | Al Raed vs Al Shabab | 1-2 | W |
| 22.02.25 | SPL | Al Taawon vs Al Shabab | 2-2 | D |
Having three victories and two draws in their past five games, Al Shabab has an outstanding form. Driven by Hamdallah’s precision finishing, Al Orubah’s 6-0 annihilation demonstrates their attacking might. Their losses on strong sides like Al Nassr and Al Taawon, however, show road fragility. Dealing with Al Ittihad away from home will try their endurance. They will have to seize counterattacks to challenge the hosts.
Head-to-Head Between Al Ittihad and Al Shabab
Over the years, numerous exciting events resulting from Al Ittihad’s and Al Shabab’s rivalry have generated Al Ittihad has a tiny edge based on 24 past meetings; Al Shabab has had flashes of genius. To prepare the semi-final, this section summarizes their most recent encounters.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 22.01.25 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab | 2-1 |
| 26.04.24 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab | 1-3 |
| 03.11.23 | SPL | Al Shabab vs Al Ittihad | 1-0 |
| 27.04.23 | SPL | Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab | 2-1 |
| 09.01.23 | SPL | Al Shabab vs Al Ittihad | 1-1 |
Al Ittihad has a psychological edge since they have won three of the past five meetings including a 2-1 triumph earlier this season. Al Shabab’s 3-1 April 2024 victory indicates they can take advantage of flaws, although their away form against the Tigers has been erratic. Given their past, one should expect a fiercely fought conflict.
Predicted Lineups for Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab Football Match
Predicting the course of this football match depends on an awareness of the possible starting elevens. Forecasts based on current team news and player availability are shown below.
Al Ittihad Predicted Lineup: Rajkovic (GK), Al Yami (DF), Al Mosa (DF), Pereira (DF), Muath (DF), Kante (MF), Fabinho (MF), Diaby (MF), Aouar (MF), Bergwijn (MF), Benzema (FW)
Al Shabab Predicted Lineup: Bushchan (GK), Al Shwirekh (DF), Hoedt (DF), Robert Renan (DF), Al Ghulaimish (MF), Al Juwayr (MF), Guanca (MF), Leandrinho (MF), Bonaventura (MF), Podence (MF), Hamdallah (FW)
Unavailable Players
Injuries can significantly alter a team’s performance, so here’s a rundown of players sidelined for this semi-final.
| Team | Player | Reason |
| Al Ittihad | Abdulelah Al Amri | Injured |
| Al Ittihad | Fawaz Al Sagour | Injured |
| Al Shabab | Fahad Al Muwallad | Injured |
| Al Shabab | Seung Gyu Kim | Injured |
Key Factors to Watch in Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab
This semi-final promises thrills; several elements could tip the scales. On the field, both teams bring different advantages and drawbacks. These are the salient features to monitor closely:
- Karim Benzema’s Form: The Frenchman’s goal-scoring streak makes him a constant threat to Al Shabab’s defense;
- Al Ittihad’s Home Advantage: Playing at King Abdullah Sports City with a passionate crowd could lift their performance;
- Al Shabab’s Attack: Hamdallah’s recent hat-trick signals danger, especially if they exploit counter-attacks;
- Injuries Impact: Al Ittihad miss two defenders, potentially weakening their backline, while Al Shabab’s absences could disrupt their rhythm;
- Recent Winning Streaks: Al Ittihad’s leadership in the SPL and Al Shabab’s three wins in five games show both are in good shape;
- Defensive Resilience: Al Ittihad’s three draws suggest solidity, but Al Shabab’s 6-0 win hints at offensive firepower;
- Motivation Levels: A King Cup final spot is at stake, pushing both teams to their limits;
- Tactical Matchup: Al Ittihad’s possession-based play versus Al Shabab’s potential counter-attacking style could dictate the tempo.
Free Tips on Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab
Looking for an edge in this King Cup semi-final? This section offers practical advice tailored to the Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab matchup. Here are five key tips to refine your betting strategy:
- Study Player Contributions Beyond Goals: Look at Benzema’s assists and key passes, not just his goals, to gauge his full impact against Al Shabab’s defense, which has conceded in recent away games;
- Evaluate Away Struggles: Al Shabab’s two draws in their last five away matches suggest they may struggle to break down Al Ittihad at home, where the Tigers rarely drop points;
- Consider Match Context: As a semi-final, this game carries extra weight, likely pushing Al Ittihad to leverage their league-leading momentum over a determined but less consistent Al Shabab;
- Monitor Late Team News: Last-minute updates on returning players or fatigue from Al Shabab’s schedule could shift the balance, especially with their injury concerns;
- Assess Goal Trends: With both teams scoring freely lately Al Ittihad averaging over 2 goals and Al Shabab hitting 6 in one game expect an open, high-scoring affair.
$ 0.00
$ 0.00
Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab Match Prediction 2025
As we approach this King Cup semi-final, Al Ittihad appear to hold the upper hand against Al Shabab. Their current leadership in the Saudi Pro League, combined with a strong home record at King Abdullah Sports City, gives them a clear edge. The Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab odds reflect this, likely favoring the hosts due to their recent 2-1 league win over Al Shabab in January 2025 and Karim Benzema’s scintillating form. His ability to dismantle defenses, as seen in the 4-1 rout of Al Hilal, makes him the X-factor here. Al Shabab, despite their attacking threat through Hamdallah, have struggled historically on the road against Al Ittihad, and their injury list could hinder their cohesion. While their 6-0 thrashing of Al Orubah shows potential, facing a motivated Al Ittihad side in a semi-final is a different beast. Expect the Tigers to control possession and exploit gaps, though Al Shabab’s counter-attacks could keep it close. The prediction leans toward a 3-2 victory for Al Ittihad, with both teams finding the net in a thrilling contest driven by high stakes and quality forwards.
Our Prediction: Al Ittihad 3-2 Al Shabab
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | Al Ittihad to Win | 2.15 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.57 |
This semi-final promises to be a spectacle, and the Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab odds make it an enticing betting opportunity. You can place your bet on the match – Al Ittihad vs Al Shabab – at bc.game, a platform offering competitive odds and a seamless experience. With Benzema in top form and the home crowd roaring, now’s the time to back the Tigers for a narrow but exciting win. Don’t miss out head to BC Game and get in on the action!
