Fixture preview — tight scrap expected in Rass
Al Hazm welcome Damac FC to Ar-Rass Stadium on 26/01/2026 for a fixture that feels more like a relegation dogfight than a midseason showcase. Both sides have struggled for consistent form through the Pro League campaign: Al Hazm sit 11th with 17 points from 16 matches while Damac occupy 15th with just 11 points. Recent meetings suggest this will be a close, low-margin contest — the first round clash between these teams ended 1-1 — and neither side offers the kind of attacking menace that promises an open thriller.
Al Hazm arrive on the back of a draw against Al Taawoun (2-2) and a mixed set of results in January, including a 3-2 win over Al Najma but heavy defeats to Al-Qadsiah (1-5) and Al Hilal (0-3). Damac’s recent run is defined by draws — six across the last ten in all competitions — plus a 1-2 home reversal to Al Nassr and a damaging 4-0 loss at Al Khaleej. Both teams have conceded heavily this season (Al Hazm 29, Damac 28) while struggling to turn chances into goals (17 and 13 scored respectively), so defensive frailties and low-scoring outcomes are both reasonable expectations.
Key tactical themes and match rhythm
This will likely be a game of margins. Al Hazm’s home patch has not been impregnable, but the bookies have priced them as favorites at 1.90, reflecting the home edge and slightly better points return. Damac’s tendency to drop points via draws — eight so far this term — means they can frustrate opponents but also lack the cutting edge to take three points on the road; their away goal return and defensive record underline that vulnerability. Expect a cautious opening phase, a midfield battle for control, and decisive moments from set-pieces or counterattacks rather than free-flowing attacking play.
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Prediction and betting suggestion
Bookmakers lean to a home success and the data mostly supports that edge: Al Hazm at 1.90 holds a solid implied probability advantage and they boast marginally better recent results. With both teams fragile at the back but lacking consistent scoring, the safest angle in the 1X2 market is to back Al Hazm to win. The head-to-head draw earlier this season suggests caution, so a conservative stake is advised.
Betting suggestion (1X2): Back Al Hazm to win (odds 1.90). Consider trimming exposure with a small stake or combining this pick with a low-risk strategy outlined in the linked market guide.
