The Saudi Pro League kicked off in style as giants Al-Hilal registered a commanding 2-0 win over Al-Riyadh in their opening-day fixture. The victory was marked not just by the scoreline but also by the leadership and performance of star winger Salem Al-Dawsari, who led from the front to set the tone for Al-Hilal’s campaign.Al-Hilal 2-0 Al-Riyadh
Strong Start to the Season
Al-Hilal entered the match as favorites, and they wasted no time in asserting dominance. The early minutes saw them control possession, circulate the ball swiftly, and test Al-Riyadh’s defensive structure. With the likes of Al-Dawsari, Aleksandar Mitrović, and Ruben Neves combining, Al-Hilal ensured the opposition stayed under constant pressure.
Al-Riyadh, to their credit, showed defensive resilience in the opening half-hour. However, their inability to keep hold of the ball in midfield invited trouble. It was only a matter of time before Al-Hilal’s relentless attacks broke through.
Al-Dawsari Shows Why He’s the Leader
The breakthrough came courtesy of none other than Salem Al-Dawsari, the talismanic winger and Saudi Arabia’s World Cup hero. His sharp runs on the flank kept the Al-Riyadh defense unsettled, and his goal in the 38th minute opened the scoring for the hosts.
Al-Dawsari’s strike not only energized the team but also reminded fans of his ability to step up in crucial moments. His combination of leadership, work rate, and creativity made him the standout performer on the pitch.
Mitrović Seals the Deal
In the second half, Al-Hilal looked more relaxed but equally dangerous. Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrović doubled the lead in the 65th minute with a clinical finish, capitalizing on a slick move orchestrated by Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinković-Savić. The goal showcased Al-Hilal’s depth in attack and the seamless understanding among their star players.
With a 2-0 cushion, Al-Hilal managed the game smartly. They controlled possession, slowed the tempo when needed, and denied Al-Riyadh any real chance of a comeback. The defensive duo of Kalidou Koulibaly and Ali Al-Bulaihi remained solid, ensuring a clean sheet to complement the attacking brilliance.
Al-Riyadh’s Struggles
For Al-Riyadh, the match highlighted areas that need urgent improvement. While they showed grit in defense during the first half, lapses in concentration cost them dearly. Their attack, meanwhile, lacked cohesion and failed to pose a genuine threat to Al-Hilal’s backline.
The newcomers will need to regroup quickly if they are to compete against the league’s heavyweights in the weeks to come.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Al-Dawsari the game-changer – His leadership and opening goal set the tone for Al-Hilal’s victory.
- Depth in Al-Hilal’s squad – With Mitrović, Neves, Milinković-Savić, and Koulibaly all delivering, the team looks well-balanced.
- Al-Riyadh’s learning curve – A tough test for the promoted side, highlighting the gulf between them and the league’s elite.
Fans React to Al-Hilal’s Dominance
Supporters were quick to hail Salem Al-Dawsari’s performance on social media, calling him the heart of Al-Hilal’s setup. Mitrović also earned praise for his sharp finishing, while many fans expressed confidence that this season could bring more silverware for the Riyadh-based club.
The 2-0 victory over Al-Riyadh was more than just three points for Al-Hilal—it was a statement of intent. With Al-Dawsari leading by example and Mitrović delivering upfront, the team looks poised for another strong campaign. If this opening game is anything to go by, Al-Hilal will once again be among the top contenders for the Saudi Pro League crown.