Al Ahli set to hand Saeed Baattia first start against Sundowns in Intercontinental Cup

Al Ahli are expected to make changes for their Intercontinental Cup meeting with South Africa’s Sundowns, with new signing Saeed Baattia in line to make his first start for the Saudi club.

Marino Pusic’s side are aiming to maintain their presence in the competition and secure a result that would provide further momentum. The expected selection suggests a focus on balancing Al Ahli’s defensive shape with its attacking threat as they prepare to face a Sundowns team known for its pace and ability to exploit open spaces.

Baattia is expected to start at right-back, while Ibrahim Diaby is set to feature in midfield alongside Valentin Atangana.

Pusic is relying on the midfield pairing to provide greater control during the match, particularly when Al Ahli have to deal with Sundowns’ quick transitions and the speed of their players. At the same time, the duo will be expected to support the team’s attempts to build attacks from the back.

Expected Al Ahli line-up

Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy

Defenders: Zakaria Hawsawi, Roger Ibanez, Merih Demiral, Saeed Baattia

Midfielders: Valentin Atangana, Ibrahim Diaby

Attacking midfielders: Francisco Trincao, Galeno, Eduard Spertsyan

Striker: Ivan Toney

Al Ahli are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Atangana and Diaby positioned in front of the defence. Francisco Trincao, Galeno and Eduard Spertsyan are likely to operate behind Ivan Toney, with the attacking trio tasked with finding space and creating opportunities to threaten the Sundowns goal.

The anticipated formation places particular importance on the work of the full-backs and the two central midfielders. Al Ahli will need to retain their defensive structure while preventing Sundowns from using the space available during transitions.

Baattia’s inclusion gives the team a new option on the right side of defence, while Diaby’s expected selection adds another midfield presence alongside Atangana. Together, those decisions reflect Pusic’s attempt to maintain stability across the pitch without reducing the team’s attacking options.

The ability to preserve that balance is likely to be central to Al Ahli’s performance. Sundowns’ speed and movement can pose a threat when spaces open up, making the positioning and timing of the Saudi side’s midfielders and full-backs especially important throughout the match.