Al Hilal – Esteghlal FC: Al-Hilal hosts Eesteghlal FC in a highly anticipated AFC Champions League match at the Kingdom Arena on Monday, November 4, 2024. Al-Hilal, who are at the top of the table with 25 points after nine games, go into this game in outstanding form, the best team in the Saudi Arabian professional league.

Their desire to bounce back at continental level was boosted by their recent 1-1 defeat against rivals Al Nassr, ending an impressive 14-game winning streak.

One of Iran's most traditional teams, Esteghlal FC, are in 14th place in the domestic league with just eight points and have had a challenging season. Financial and managerial problems faced by the club have had a major impact on its on-field performance, resulting in a series of poor results including a dismal 0-2 defeat to Tractor in the Persian Gulf League.

Kick-off details

Date: November 4, 2024 Monday
Time: 11:30 PM IST; 6:00pm UK
Venue: Kingdom Arena

Team form

Al-Hilal (last five games: DWWWW).
Esteghlal (five last games): LLLWL

Players to keep an eye on

Al-Hilal will rely heavily on Sergej Milinkovic-Savic as he can demonstrate his adaptability in the penalty area and provide scoring opportunities. Some of the most important players in the game are his physical presence and his endurance.

Despite Esteghlal's challenges, Didier Ndong is still a player to keep an eye on. Ndong is known for his vision and speed and can motivate Esteghlal, especially when switching from defense to attack.

Head-to-head story

Each side has won four of the last eight matches. However, Al-Hilal emerged victorious from their previous encounter – a 2-0 triumph in the AFC Champions League round of 16 in September 2021.

forecast

Al-Hilal's exceptional form and Esteghlal's constant challenges point to a certain triumph for the hosts. Al-Hilal should play well, which will likely result in a 3-1 win against Esteghlal.

Betting tips

• Al-Hilal triumphs
• Both groups score a goal.
• More than 2.5 goals
• Al-Hilal completes both halves.

Where to watch live streams

USA: Primary+
Nigeria: beIN SPORTS CONNECT, Tend

Al-Hilal want to maintain their momentum in the AFC Champions League; Esteghlal will try to turn the tide and get a positive result away from home. Both fans and bettors will find this interaction an interesting play in the ongoing event.