Al Seeb and East Bengal both have credible routes into the box, even though their continental results have been uneven. Shamal and Al Hilal pose a different test: Hilal should have more territory, while Shamal can defend compactly and pick moments to reach Bounedjah. In both matches, the response after the first goal matters as much as the opening attack.
East Bengal created repeatedly against Al Shorta and found good first-half chances at Al Hussein. Rashid's forward passing, Ramirez's delivery and Lalhlansanga's runs meet an Al Seeb side that made plenty of box entries against Al Hussein but put few attempts on target. Busaidi's crosses to Meye can trouble East Bengal's right side; East Bengal's ability to create again after losing the lead against Al Shorta gives them an answer. Loba played a substantial part of their last match and Lalhlansanga also appeared, while the starting combination remains unannounced. I expect chances at both ends and am siding with East Bengal to take at least a level regular-time result.
Hilal's usual wide service and Watkins' movement can pin Shamal back, but Marí and Suhail have helped the home side restrict strong continental opponents. Mahrez started Shamal's last match and gives Bounedjah another outlet after the first clearance. Neves, Summerville, Martinelli and Mahzari all played Hilal's last match and are now ruled out, leaving the supply of repeated clear chances through their replacements unproven. I expect Hilal pressure with Shamal still able to defend phases and answer through Mahrez or Ben Romdhane. That's why I'm siding with Shamal to stay close through regular time.
