Al-Hilal were due to host Shabab Al-Ahli at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Tuesday 3 November in the fourth round of the AFC Champions League Elite league phase. The home side were looking to avoid back-to-back defeats in Asia.
Inzaghi's starting shape
Al-Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi named a starting line-up with three men at the heart of the defence: Kalidou Koulibaly, Yusuf Akcicek and Ali Lajami. Sabri Dahel and Mutaab Al-Harbi were at full-back in Al-Hilal's starting line-up.
Inzaghi opted for a front two of Ollie Watkins and Mohamed Kader Mitta, backed in midfield by Sergej, Simon Boabre and Mohamed Kanno.
Same system as previous Asian outing
Al-Hilal used the same shape to start their last Asian outing against Al-Shamal, with a change of personnel. Al-Hilal's last Asian outing against Al-Shamal ended in a 1-3 defeat.
Players unavailable
Crysencio Summerville was suspended. Salem Al-Dawsari, Gabriel Martinelli and Ruben Neves were sidelined through injury.
Group positions before kick-off
Al-Hilal were eighth in the Western group on 6 points, from two wins and a single defeat. Shabab Al-Ahli were chasing a fourth straight win in the competition. Shabab Al-Ahli were second on 9 points, three behind Al-Ain, who had played an extra match.
