The highly anticipated Saudi Super Cup semifinal between Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad is set to kick off on August 19, 2025, at Hong Kong Stadium, promising a fierce battle between two Saudi football giants. With Al-Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo and new manager Jorge Jesus, facing off against defending Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad under Laurent Blanc, this match is a pivotal moment in the 2025-26 season. Fans are eager for updates on this high-stakes encounter, which could set the tone for the Super Cup final.
Match Preview and Team News
Al-Nassr enters the match with momentum from a strong pre-season, including a 4-0 victory over Rio Ave and a hat-trick from Ronaldo against Toulouse. The team, bolstered by new signings João Félix, Kingsley Coman, and Iñigo Martínez, is adopting a dynamic, high-tempo attacking style under Jesus. However, they face a challenge with Sami Al-Najai sidelined due to a long-term injury. Al-Nassr’s lineup, featuring stars like Sadio Mané and Marcelo Brozović, is expected to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities.
Al-Ittihad, fresh off a domestic double in the 2024-25 season, has struggled in pre-season, suffering losses to Fenerbahce, Fulham, and Portimonense. Despite these setbacks, the Tigers boast a formidable squad with players like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Fabinho. Injuries to key players like Moussa Diaby, Luiz Felipe, and Ahmed Sharahili could impact their performance, though Steven Bergwijn and Houssem Aouar are likely to feature if they recover in time.
Recent Head-to-Head and Key Moments
The rivalry between Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad has been intense, with Al-Ittihad securing victories in both league meetings last season (2-1 and 3-2). A notable match on May 7, 2025, saw Al-Ittihad stage a comeback to win 3-2 at Al-Awwal Park, with Houssem Aouar scoring a late winner. Al-Nassr, however, has a historical edge in head-to-head encounters, holding 10 wins to Al-Ittihad’s 9, with 5 draws. The reverse fixture in March 2025 saw Al-Ittihad clinch a 2-1 victory, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Bergwijn.
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Key moments from their previous clash included Sadio Mané’s early goal for Al-Nassr, followed by Al-Ittihad’s second-half resurgence with goals from Abdulrahman Al-Obud and Muhannad Al-Shanqiti. The match was marked by physicality, with yellow cards issued to players like Ali Al-Hassan and Danilo Pereira, and a late red card to Moussa Diaby.
What to Expect in the Super Cup Semifinal
This semifinal is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with statistical projections suggesting a 60% chance of both teams scoring and a 69% likelihood of over 2.5 goals. Al-Nassr’s attacking prowess, led by Ronaldo’s recent scoring form (six goals in three matches), will test Al-Ittihad’s defense, which has shown vulnerabilities. Conversely, Al-Ittihad’s ability to capitalize on counter-attacks, as demonstrated in their league victories, could challenge Al-Nassr’s backline.
The match’s outcome may hinge on tactical adjustments. Jorge Jesus’ high-pressing style could exploit Al-Ittihad’s defensive concerns, while Laurent Blanc will rely on Kanté and Fabinho to control the midfield. Fans can expect a competitive clash with moments of brilliance from stars like Ronaldo, Mané, Benzema, and Bergwijn.
How to Follow the Match
Fans can catch the Al-Nassr vs Al-Ittihad Saudi Super Cup semifinal live on fubo and FOX in the US, with kick-off at 8:00 AM ET on August 19, 2025. Live updates, including minute-by-minute scores, goal scorers, and match statistics, are available on platforms like Sofascore and Flashscore. For those abroad, a VPN like NordVPN can ensure access to streaming services.
Looking Ahead
As Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad vie for a spot in the Saudi Super Cup final, this match promises to deliver drama, goals, and a showcase of top-tier talent. With Al-Nassr aiming to reclaim silverware and Al-Ittihad defending their dominance, the outcome will have significant implications for both teams’ seasons. Stay tuned for real-time updates and highlights from this blockbuster clash.
