Al-Shabbab vs Sitra Prediction: Relegation battle continues for both sides

The match between Al-Shabbab and Sitra is scheduled to take place at Sheikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium. This match is part of the eighth round of the Bahrain Premier League. Both teams are now in the relegation ranks in the league standings as they prepare to compete against one another. On the other hand, a victory is guaranteed to pull either team out of the bottom ranks; which side do you believe will be able to take advantage of the situation? 

Al-Shabbab is heading into this match following a 1-1 draw in the Premier League against East Riffa. They initially took the lead with a 23rd-minute goal by Hanan. However, Faris Ghatasha's 51st-minute strike equalized the score, and Al-Shabbab could only secure a point from the match. It has been a rare occurrence in recent games for Al-Shabbab not to concede, as they have failed to prevent opponents from scoring in 5 of their last 6 matches, conceding a total of 9 goals during that period. Currently, the home team occupies the 9th spot in the standings with 7 points.

Sitra is entering this match on the back of a remarkable 3-5 victory over Al-Hidd in their recent league encounter. As they approach this fixture, the visitors aim to maintain their momentum and strive to climb higher in the league standings. However, Sitra has experienced mixed results in their last five matches, securing only one win. During this period, they suffered a defeat against Al Riffa, while matches against Busaiteen, Manama Club, and Al-Najma concluded in draws. Currently positioned at the 11th spot in the league standings, Sitra has accumulated 6 points, sharing the same point total as the bottom-placed Busaiteen.

I am backing the home team in this match. Undoubtedly, both sides have encountered difficulties, and there are uncertainties about their performance in this encounter. However, considering the performances of the two teams against top sides this season, I believe Al-Shabbab has a slight advantage. Therefore, I expect them to have the upper hand and secure a favorable outcome on their home turf.