In a top-of-the-table clash in the Saudi Professional League, Al-Hilal secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Al-Ittihad on Friday evening at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh.
Match Details:
The match began with attacking pressure from both sides, but Al-Hilal took the lead first through their Brazilian star Michel Delgado in the 23rd minute, following a decisive pass from Salem Al-Dawsari. In the second half, Al-Hilal extended their lead with a second goal from Salem Al-Dawsari himself in the 67th minute.
Al-Ittihad did not give up and managed to reduce the deficit through Brazilian Romarinho in the 82nd minute, but that did not prevent Al-Hilal from maintaining their lead until the end of the match.
Coaches’ Comments:
Ramon Diaz, Al-Hilal’s coach, said after the match: “We played a strong match and managed to achieve an important victory. The players were up to the task, and we are happy with this win.”
Nuno Santo, Al-Ittihad’s coach, commented: “We played well in the second half and managed to score a goal, but we were not fortunate in equalizing. We will work on correcting mistakes in the upcoming matches.”
Statistics:
– Al-Hilal achieved their sixth consecutive win in the league.
– Al-Hilal raised their tally to 45 points at the top of the standings.
– Al-Ittihad remained in third place with 38 points.
– Salem Al-Dawsari scored his 10th goal in the league this season.
General Standings:
1. Al-Hilal: 45 points
2. Al-Nassr: 42 points
3. Al-Ittihad: 38 points
4. Al-Shabab: 35 points
Al-Hilal is preparing to face Abha in the next round, while Al-Ittihad will play against Al-Fayha.
Conclusion:
With this victory, Al-Hilal continues to lead the Saudi league, confirming their strength and consistency this season. On the other hand, Al-Ittihad will seek to return to the winning track in the upcoming matches to maintain their position in the standings.