Machida Zelvia are set to face Al Ittihad in a high-stakes AFC Champions League Elite 2025-26 quarter-final clash on April 17 at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah. Both teams enter this match aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals, and this will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides.
Zelvia have shown strong performances throughout the tournament, but their recent form has been slightly inconsistent. On the other hand, Al Ittihad have also struggled for consistency this season but have managed to deliver results in crucial moments, especially in knockout fixtures.
Match Details
| Match | Machida Zelvia vs Al Ittihad |
|---|---|
| Competition | AFC Champions League Elite |
| Date | April 17, 2026 |
| Venue | Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium, Jeddah |
| Kick-off Time | 11:30 PM IST |
| VAR | In Use |
Machida Zelvia vs Al Ittihad Preview
Machida Zelvia come into this match after progressing past Gangwon FC in the previous round. Their journey in the AFC Champions League has been impressive, with five wins, two draws, and just one defeat in eight matches. They have scored 15 goals while conceding only seven, showing a balanced approach in both attack and defence.
However, their recent domestic form has been mixed. While they secured a 1-0 win against Kashiwa Reysol, they have struggled to maintain consistency across competitions. This inconsistency could become a major concern in a knockout game like this.
Al Ittihad, meanwhile, secured their place in the quarter-finals after edging past Al Wahda in a tight contest. Their overall campaign has seen them score 22 goals in eight matches, highlighting their attacking strength. At the same time, they have conceded nine goals, which shows that their defence can be vulnerable under pressure.
Their recent form includes a mix of wins and losses, but they tend to perform better in important matches. With experienced players in key positions, Al Ittihad will look to control the tempo and make the most of their attacking options.
Recent Form
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Machida Zelvia | W-D-L-D-W |
| Al Ittihad | L-D-W-L-W |
Both teams have shown inconsistency, but Zelvia have a slightly more stable run in terms of results.
Head-to-Head Record
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 0 |
| Zelvia Wins | 0 |
| Al Ittihad Wins | 0 |
| Draws | 0 |
This will be the first meeting between the two teams, adding more uncertainty to the outcome.
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Team News
Machida Zelvia have no major injury concerns and are expected to have a full squad available for this important match. This gives them a good advantage in terms of squad depth and selection.
Al Ittihad may miss Saad Al Mousa due to fitness issues. Apart from that, the squad looks ready, with key players available for selection.
Probable Lineups
Machida Zelvia probable XI (3-4-2-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Tani |
| DF | Mochizuki |
| DF | Shoji |
| DF | Nakayama |
| MF | Nakamura |
| MF | Shirasaki |
| MF | Lavi |
| MF | Hayashi |
| AM | Sento |
| AM | Soma |
| FW | Yengi |
Al Ittihad probable XI (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Rajkovic |
| DF | Al-Shanqiti |
| DF | Keller |
| DF | Mahbub |
| DF | Mitaj |
| MF | Pereira |
| MF | Fabinho |
| AM | Diaby |
| AM | Aouar |
| AM | Bergwijn |
| FW | En-Nesyri |
Key Players to Watch
Yuki Soma
Yuki Soma has been one of the key attacking players for Machida Zelvia in this tournament. He has scored three goals in 10 appearances and will be expected to lead the attack once again. His ability to create chances and find space will be crucial.
Fabinho
Fabinho is expected to play a major role for Al Ittihad. His control in midfield and ability to contribute in both defence and attack make him one of the most important players on the pitch. He recently scored a decisive goal and will look to continue that form.
Key Stats
| Stat | Machida Zelvia | Al Ittihad |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 8 | 8 |
| Wins | 5 | 5 |
| Goals Scored | 15 | 22 |
| Goals Conceded | 7 | 9 |
| Last 10 Matches | 7W, 1D, 2L | 5W, 2D, 3L |
Zelvia have a stronger defensive record, while Al Ittihad have scored more goals, showing a clear contrast in playing style.
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Match Prediction
This match is expected to be closely contested. Machida Zelvia have shown discipline and structure, especially at home, and their defensive strength can help them stay in the game. Al Ittihad, on the other hand, have more attacking depth and experience in high-pressure matches.
Zelvia’s ability to stay compact and organized could make it difficult for Al Ittihad to dominate completely. At the same time, Al Ittihad’s attacking quality means they are always capable of finding a breakthrough.
The game could turn into a balanced contest where both teams create chances but struggle to fully control the match.
Final Prediction
| Prediction Market | Pick |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Al Ittihad Win |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes |
| Correct Score | Machida Zelvia 1-2 Al Ittihad |
Al Ittihad appear slightly stronger in attack and may have the edge in key moments, but Machida Zelvia are expected to put up a strong fight in this quarter-final clash.
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