| Al Nassr vs Arkadag | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Al Nassr vs Arkadag
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COMPETITION :
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AFC Cup
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| DATE: |
18-02-2026
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TIME:
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11.45 PM IST
10.25 PM UAE
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STADIUM
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AL-AWWAL PARK Stadium
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Al Fateh vs Al Nassr – Team News, Predicted Lineups & Match Preview
Al Fateh head into this fixture with a relatively stable squad, although they will have to cope without one key attacking option. Forward Mourad Batna has been ruled out due to injury, making him the only confirmed absentee for the hosts ahead of this clash.
In defence, Al Fateh are expected to retain their trusted central pairing, with Jorge Fernandes set to line up alongside Marwane Saadane at the heart of the backline. Their partnership has provided defensive balance in recent weeks and should once again form the foundation of the team’s structure.
Midfield responsibilities will likely fall to Zaydou Youssouf and Sofiane Bendebka, who are expected to operate as the double pivot. Their role will be crucial in breaking up opposition play while also initiating transitions from defence to attack.
Going forward, Matias Vargas and Fahad Al-Zubaidi are tipped to spearhead the attacking unit. With Batna unavailable, the duo will carry the creative and goal-scoring burden as manager Gomes looks for sharper execution in the final third.
Al Nassr Team News
Al Nassr’s preparations have once again been overshadowed by the continued absence of Cristiano Ronaldo. The veteran forward remains sidelined after going on strike amid ongoing internal issues, and his availability for this match appears unlikely.
Ronaldo has not featured since scoring in the 3-0 win over Al Kholood at the end of January. He subsequently missed recent victories against Al Riyadh, Al Ittihad and Arkadag, forcing Al Nassr to adapt their attacking setup in his absence.
There is a possibility that Saad Haqawi could make his return after being out of action since December, although this fixture may come too soon for the defender. Meanwhile, Sami Al-Najei is also considered a doubt and will face a late fitness assessment.
Predicted Lineup & Tactical Setup
Despite the notable absences, Al Nassr still possess formidable attacking depth.
Angelo Gabriel and Joao Felix are expected to operate in advanced central roles, offering creativity and link-up play in the final third. Their movement between the lines should be key to unlocking Al Fateh’s defensive shape.
On the flanks, Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman are likely to provide width, pace and directness. Their ability to stretch play and deliver into the box could prove decisive, particularly without Ronaldo as a focal point.
In midfield, Marcelo Brozovic should partner Abdullah Al-Khaibari. The duo will be tasked with controlling possession, dictating tempo and shielding the defence against counterattacks.
Defensively, Mohamed Simakan is expected to start alongside Inigo Martinez in central defence, forming a physically strong and tactically experienced partnership at the back.
Match Outlook
While Al Fateh will miss Mourad Batna’s attacking influence, they still retain a balanced spine capable of troubling their opponents — especially at home.
Al Nassr, meanwhile, continue to adjust to life without Cristiano Ronaldo. However, with stars such as Mane, Felix and Coman in attack, they still carry significant firepower.
The midfield battle — particularly Brozovic and Al-Khaibari against Youssouf and Bendebka — could ultimately dictate the rhythm and outcome of the contest.