Match preview: David vs. Goliath in Rass
The Ar-Rass Stadium will stage an intriguing clash as Al Kholood welcome Al Ittihad on 09/01/2026 in a Pro League round-14 fixture that feels like a study in contrasts. Al Kholood arrive sitting 12th after 12 matches, four wins and eight defeats, buoyed by a sensational 5-0 romp at Al-Fayha on 3 January but otherwise uneven form. Al Ittihad, sixth and gathering momentum, have been the model of consistency — seven victories in 12, narrow margins and clinical finishing that have them perched as clear favorites according to the market.
Al Kholood’s home ledger is volatile. They have shown they can score — 19 goals in the campaign — but they have also leaked 22, and only one clean sheet at home underlines defensive vulnerability. Their recent five-goal outburst suggests the squad can produce moments of attacking excellence, though such peaks are interspersed with heavy defeats. The atmosphere in Rass will be hopeful, yet cautionary: Al Kholood’s last weeks read W-L-L-W-L-L-L-L-W-W across a broader span, an erratic rhythm that makes consistency hard to trust.
Al Ittihad’s momentum and tactical edge
Al Ittihad arrive on the back of a string of wins, including a 1-0 victory over Al Taawoun on 3 January and a convincing set of domestic results that underline control in both halves. Statistically they outgun Al Kholood across the board — more shots (164 vs 120), more efforts on target (64 vs 48), and a superior record in dangerous attacks and corners. Their away attacking numbers are particularly telling: 14 goals scored away from home combined with an away BTTS rate of 66.7% suggests a team that travels with intent and threats at both ends.
Head-to-head history gives Al Ittihad psychological comfort as well; a recent 4-3 victory in the Pro League shows they can both score and survive high-octane encounters with Al Kholood. With creative influence in midfield and match management demonstrated in narrow 1-0 wins, they possess the blend to exploit Al Kholood’s defensive holes.
Market context and what the odds tell us
Bookmakers make Al Ittihad a heavy favorite at about 1.44, implying close to a 70% chance of success. The draw and home prices (4.60 and 6.25 respectively) reflect low market confidence in an Al Kholood upset. Given the form lines, shot supremacy and recent head-to-head, the market bias is understandable. For readers looking to sharpen their approach to market selection, consider the fundamentals in the preview and some practical reading such as Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets and to manage mindset under pressure consult How to have emotional control when placing bets?
Betting suggestion
The clearest play here is 1X2: back Al Ittihad to win (Away). Their superior form, volume of chances created, and clinical record away from home align with the short price on offer. For punters who prefer goal markets, Both Teams To Score is an attractive alternative given Al Kholood’s home BTTS history and Al Ittihad’s away scoring habit — but the primary recommendation is Al Ittihad to take the three points. Bet with discipline and size stakes to reflect the short price.
