In a high-stakes Saudi Pro League clash, defending champions Al-Hilal asserted their dominance with a 3-1 victory over Al-Ettifaq, propelling them back to the top of the table. Aleksandar Mitrovic, Malcolm, and Mohammed Al-Qahtani all found the back of the net to secure a crucial win for the Riyadh-based giants.
Al-Hilal’s Clinical Performance Pushes Them Back to First
The match, which took place on Saturday evening, was a statement victory for Al-Hilal. With the title race heating up in the Saudi Pro League, the defending champions knew they needed a win to reclaim their place at the summit. After a shaky start to the season, this victory over mid-table Al-Ettifaq came as a much-needed boost to their title defence hopes.
From the first whistle, Al-Hilal looked in control. They were sharp, organised, and clinical in front of goal, taking full advantage of their chances. Al-Ettifaq, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm and were unable to match the quality of their opponents, despite the presence of manager Steven Gerrard on the sidelines.
The match saw three different players on the scoresheet for Al-Hilal. Aleksandar Mitrovic opened the scoring early in the second half, before Brazilian winger Malcolm doubled the lead. Mohammed Al-Qahtani wrapped up the win with a third goal, leaving Al-Ettifaq with little to show for their efforts.
Mitrovic Opens the Scoring with a Masterful Header
Al-Hilal’s first goal came in the 47th minute, shortly after the break. Mitrovic, the Serbian striker known for his aerial prowess, was perfectly positioned to head in a precise cross from the wing. The goal sent the home fans into a frenzy, and it seemed to give Al-Hilal a renewed sense of purpose.
The towering forward had been in fine form this season, and his clinical header demonstrated just why Al-Hilal were eager to sign him. With the goal, Mitrovic further solidified his reputation as one of the top strikers in the Saudi Pro League.
Malcolm Doubles the Advantage with a Brilliant Finish
Just moments after Mitrovic’s opener, Al-Hilal found themselves 2-0 up thanks to a superb finish from Malcolm. The Brazilian winger took a pass from midfield and calmly slotted the ball past Al-Ettifaq’s goalkeeper into the bottom corner of the net.
Malcolm’s goal showed off his composure and finesse, making it clear that he remains one of the league’s most dangerous players. His performances in recent weeks have been a key factor in Al-Hilal’s resurgence, and this goal only added to his growing reputation as a crucial player for the defending champions.
Al-Qahtani Seals the Win with a Coolly Taken Strike
With Al-Ettifaq struggling to get back into the game, Al-Hilal added a third to effectively seal the result. Mohammed Al-Qahtani, another key player for the team, scored in the 72nd minute. His composed strike from outside the box was a testament to his technical ability and vision, and it capped off a perfect evening for Al-Hilal.
While Al-Ettifaq managed to pull one back late on through a consolation goal, it was clear that the game was already decided. Al-Hilal’s third goal had broken Al-Ettifaq’s spirit, and they were unable to mount any serious challenge after that.
Al-Ettifaq’s Struggles Continue
For Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq, this loss was yet another blow in what has been a difficult season. After a promising start to the campaign, they have slipped down the table and now find themselves struggling for form. Despite being backed heavily in the transfer market, Al-Ettifaq has failed to gel as a team, with several of their high-profile signings yet to make a significant impact.
This defeat leaves Al-Ettifaq languishing in mid-table, far from the title race, and under increasing pressure. Gerrard’s position at the club has been a topic of much debate, with many fans growing frustrated with his inability to turn things around. With their next few matches critical, Al-Ettifaq will need to regroup quickly if they are to avoid further disappointment.
