Al-Hilal responded emphatically to their recent defeat in the “Saudi El Clasico” with a dominant 5-1 victory over Al-Kholood at the Kingdom Arena on Tuesday. The win narrows the gap to league leaders Al-Ittihad to four points, albeit having played a game more, and serves as a reminder of Al-Hilal’s title credentials.
Following a 4-1 loss to Al-Ittihad on Saturday, which left them with only one win in five league matches, Al-Hilal displayed a renewed sense of urgency. They raced into a two-goal lead within the first four minutes. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s long pass found Salem Al-Dawsari, whose chipped ball over the defense was headed home by Malcom. Al-Dawsari then doubled the lead himself, finishing from close range after goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe parried a Marcos Leonardo header.
Malcom scored his second in the 20th minute, finishing off a smart header back across goal from Milinkovic-Savic. The fourth goal, eight minutes later, showcased Brazilian flair. Kaio Cesar’s run and cross from the right found Leonardo, who headed powerfully past Grohe.
Al-Kholood, despite entering the match in decent form (five wins from their previous eight games), were overwhelmed by Al-Hilal’s attacking intensity and were relieved to reach halftime without further damage.
Al-Dawsari completed his brace 10 minutes into the second half. Kaio Cesar, again influential, exchanged passes with Joao Cancelo before setting up Al-Dawsari for a close-range finish.
Al-Kholood managed a consolation goal through Abdulrahman Al-Safari’s powerful strike 10 minutes later, but the result was never in doubt. Al-Hilal’s comprehensive victory provides a significant boost to their morale and keeps the pressure on Al-Ittihad at the top of the Saudi Pro League, with 12 games remaining. Al Ittihad will face Al-Khaleej on Wednesday.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.