Al-Ittihad vs Al-Gharafa: Sérgio Conceição’s Men Seek Continental Dominance
JEDDAH, 10 February 2026 – Al-Ittihad return to continental action tonight as they host Qatari side Al-Gharafa in a pivotal AFC Champions League Elite (West Region) encounter at the King Abdullah Sports City.
The Saudi giants, currently managed by Portuguese tactician Sérgio Conceição, enter the Round 7 fixture sitting 6th in the group standings. Their opponents, Al-Gharafa, led by Pedro Martins, occupy 9th place and are desperate for points to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. Al-Ittihad boast a formidable home record, having secured victories in seven of their last eight matches in Jeddah, averaging 1.83 goals per game at their home fortress.
Team News and Tactical Adjustments
Coach Conceição has reportedly integrated several “new faces” into the matchday squad, looking to refresh the side following a period of inconsistent form (five wins in the last ten outings). The hosts received a significant boost with the news that Mouhannad Al-Shanqeeti is fit and available for selection. Furthermore, Dutch international Steven Bergwijn is nearing a return to the first team, though tonight may come too soon for a starting role.
Defensively, the “Tigers” remain thin. Saad Al-Mousa has only just begun his rehabilitation programme and remains sidelined, while right-back Ahmed Al-Julaidan is a major doubt following recent medical evaluations. Al-Gharafa, meanwhile, arrive in Jeddah following a mixed run of domestic results in Qatar, including a recent 0-0 draw against Al-Shamal.
Match Facts & Standings
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Competition | AFC Champions League Elite (Matchday 7) |
| Venue | King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah |
| Kick-off Time | 18:15 (Local) / 20:15 (GST) |
| Al-Ittihad Position | 6th (West Region) |
| Al-Gharafa Position | 9th (West Region) |
| Home Form (Al-Ittihad) | 7 wins in last 8 matches |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current form of Al-Ittihad?
Al-Ittihad have shown strong momentum at home but have been somewhat inconsistent overall, recording five wins, two draws, and three losses in their last ten matches across all competitions.
Who are the key players missing for Al-Ittihad?
Saad Al-Mousa is confirmed out as he begins physical rehabilitation. Ahmed Al-Julaidan is also unlikely to feature following a medical assessment of his recent injury.
Where does this match fit in the AFC Champions League Elite?
This is a Round 7 fixture in the West Region group stage. With Al-Ittihad in 6th and Al-Gharafa in 9th, the result will be critical for determining which teams advance to the Round of 16.
Who are the managers for both teams?
The match features an all-Portuguese managerial battle: Sérgio Conceição leads Al-Ittihad, while Pedro Martins is at the helm for Al-Gharafa.