Photo Credit: Al-Shabab FC's Twitter Handle

After a misfiring Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2021-22 season, Mumbai City FC will commence the journey in their first-ever AFC Champions League, with renewed hopes, against Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab FC.

Ahead of a landmark match in the history of the club, let us get a brief understanding of the opponents:

History

The first football club in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Al-Shabab FC was founded in 1947. A popular club in the Middle Eastern nation, the White Lions gained prominence in the 1990s, after several setbacks and other formalities in the initial years, becoming the first Saudi club to win the professional and new Saudi Premier League, in 1991. They are also the first Saudi club to win three Saudi Premier League titles in a row (1991, 1992, 1993).

The six-time Saudi Arabian champions have made nine appearances in the AFC Champions League, reaching the semi-finals once (2010), the quarter-finals twice (2006, 2013), and round of 16 thrice (2009, 2011, 2014).

Form Guide: DLWWL

The side led by Brazilian head coach Pericles Chamusca faced a 2-1 defeat in the Kings’ Cup against 2021 Saudi Arabian Champions and AFC Champions League winners Al Hilal in their last match. The Riyadh-based club stand fourth in the league standings with 47 points from 25 games.

Head-To-Head

Neither side have shared the field together in their lifetime, making it their first contest against each other.

Key Players

Carlos Alberto: The Brazilian has been racking up goals for his side, netting 14 times this season besides providing three valuable assists, proving a constant threat to the opposition.

Ever Banega: The midfielder has been at the helm of the Al-Shabab midfield and has been the orchestrator of their style of play, having registered 12 goal contributions in total consisting of seven goals and five assists.

Match Details:

Fixture: Mumbai City FC vs Al-Shabab FC

Date: April 8, 2022

Time: 10:45 PM (IST)

Venue: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Telecast: Star Sports Network

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Mumbai City FC