Dragan Talajic has maintained faith in the experienced squad that led Bahrain to Gulf Cup victory; their leading scorer from that tournament, Mohamed Marhoon, is among the familiar faces expected to start.

With 117 caps for his nation, captain Kamil Al-Aswad is set to play in central midfield, while 36-year-old Waleed Al Hayam will anchor the hosts' defense. Villarreal's young talent Sayed Al-Wadaei has been selected again, though he is likely to remain on the bench.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's coach Herve Renard has chosen a younger squad, although veteran Al-Hilal winger Salem Al-Dawsari is expected to start.

Renard can now include right-back Ali Majrashi, who has recovered from an adductor injury that sidelined him for several weeks. However, Al-Ettifaq's defender Abdullah Mado has stepped in for Jehad Thakri, who suffered a hamstring injury during Al-Qadisiyah's King's Cup final match.

Additionally, Muteb Al-Harbi and Mohammed Bakr have been training separately and might not play, especially considering the upcoming home game against Australia next week.

Bahrain possible starting lineup:

Lutfalla; Emmanuel, Benaddi, Al-Hayam, Al-Khalasi; Saeed, Al-Aswad; Madan, Marhoon, Al-Humaidan; Abduljabbar

Saudi Arabia possible starting lineup:

Al-Aqidi; Abdulhamid, Lajami, Al-Tambakti, Boushal; Yahya, Al-Ghamdi, N. Al-Dawsari; S. Al-Dawsari, Al-Buraikan, Al-Sahafi