The Saudi Super Cup final on August 19, 2025, sets the stage for another heated battle between two of the Kingdom’s most successful clubs, Al Nassr and Al Ittihad. With both sides carrying strong league form into this fixture, fans can expect a contest packed with intensity, tactical battles, and no shortage of star power.
Al Nassr Seeking Redemption
Al Nassr head into the final eager to bounce back after a series of frustrating results. Jorge Jesus’ men fell 2-3 to Al Ittihad in the league and also endured a narrow friendly defeat against Almeria. Despite these setbacks, Al Nassr remain one of the most dangerous attacking units in Saudi football.
The team’s frontline, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Moussa Diaby, has the firepower to decide matches in an instant. Ronaldo, often at his best in high-stakes encounters, is looking to make amends after drawing a blank in the previous Super Cup. Jorge Jesus, famed for his aggressive pressing and proactive approach, is expected to push his players to dominate the tempo from the opening whistle and disrupt Al Ittihad’s structured game.
Al Ittihad’s Recent Edge
Al Ittihad, guided by Laurent Blanc, enter the match with confidence, having beaten Al Nassr in their last two competitive meetings. Blanc has built a balanced squad blending experienced leaders with emerging talents. In defense, Mohamed Simakan has been a commanding presence, while Abderrazak Hamdallah continues to deliver goals at key moments.
However, injuries could complicate Blanc’s plans. The absence of goalkeeper Predrag Rajković and defender Hassan Kadesh leaves question marks over their depth in crucial areas. Even so, Blanc’s tactical adaptability may allow Al Ittihad to neutralize Al Nassr’s aggressive style and exploit any defensive gaps through well-timed counter-attacks.
Clash of Styles in a High-Stakes Final
Both teams boast strong defensive records this season, conceding just six league goals each. Yet the Super Cup’s knockout nature often encourages a more adventurous approach. Al Nassr have already demonstrated their attacking power with emphatic wins such as their 4-0 triumph over Rio Ave and a 9-0 dismantling of Al Okhdood, proof of what they can achieve when their attack clicks.
Al Ittihad, meanwhile, will look to rely on structured buildup play and sharp counter-attacking sequences. The midfield battle is expected to be decisive, with transitions and ball recovery likely to determine which side gains the upper hand.
Prediction
Al Ittihad’s recent Super Cup away matches have been high-scoring affairs, producing 22 goals across their last five appearances, with both teams finding the net in every game. Similarly, Al Nassr have seen goals at both ends in 13 consecutive matches at this level, suggesting another open encounter is on the cards.
Given the balance of form and the hunger for redemption, Al Nassr appear slightly better placed to secure the trophy. Ronaldo’s experience and Diaby’s pace could prove decisive against an Ittihad defense missing key players. Still, Hamdallah is expected to keep Al Nassr’s backline busy, ensuring a competitive fight until the final whistle.
Prediction: Al Nassr 3:1 Al Ittihad