Al-Hilal Saudi FC
NEOM stunned Al-Hilal Saudi FC with a commanding 2-0 victory in the Pro League Regular Season – 6 clash, leaving the home fans in disbelief. The visitors struck early through an own goal and sealed their win with a clinical finish from Amadou Koné, silencing the Riyadh Stadium.
Al-Hilal Saudi FC’s Early Misery
The night took a disastrous turn for Al-Hilal Saudi FC in the 15th minute when Kalidou Koulibaly unintentionally diverted the ball into his own net. The home side, boasting 63% possession and 20 total shots, struggled to recover from the early setback. Sergej Milinković-Savić’s yellow card in the 23rd minute summed up their frustration as NEOM’s compact defense absorbed the pressure.
NEOM’s Clinical Efficiency
NEOM doubled their lead on the stroke of halftime through Amadou Koné, who calmly slotted home to cap a first-half masterclass. Despite being outpossessed, the visitors made the most of their chances, with just 11 shots compared to Al-Hilal Saudi FC’s 20. Their defense held firm, with goalkeeper Mateusz Bułka making five crucial saves.
A Disciplined Second Half
The second half turned into a battle of attrition, with yellow cards flying for both sides. Al-Hilal Saudi FC threw on fresh legs, including Mohamed Kader Meïté and Saad Al-Mutairi, but NEOM’s defensive discipline never wavered. Alexandre Lacazette’s substitution in the 84th minute highlighted their focus on maintaining the lead.
What This Means
For NEOM, this result is a statement win, proving they can compete with the league’s elite. Al-Hilal Saudi FC, meanwhile, will rue their missed opportunities as their Pro League campaign hits a stumbling block. Both sides now look ahead to their next fixtures, with NEOM riding high and Al-Hilal Saudi FC desperate to bounce back.
Key Moments
15′ ⚽ NEOM — Kalidou Koulibaly
45′ ⚽ NEOM — Amadou Koné
