Al Ansar vs Al Ahed - Premier League

Season-defining implications hang over this Premier League clash at the home ground, where Al Ansar host Al Ahed on May 12, 2026 knowing the result could shape the run-in for both clubs. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

Both Al Ansar and Al Ahed will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Premier League. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. Al Ahed will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. That result ended the European giants' 14-game unbeaten run in the competition, as Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham were contained by an "incredible" performance from a player barely anyone outside of France had heard of.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Al Ansar may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Al Ahed have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Everton also want to sign a striker as they search for a more consistent source of goals with neither Thierno Barry nor Beto delivering on that front so far.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Premier League picture. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.