Al-Hilal kept their Saudi Pro League title hopes alive with a crucial 2-0 victory over Neom in Riyadh on Saturday night. The win reduced the gap to league leaders Al-Nassr to just two points heading into the final match week.
Early Penalty Sets the Tone
Ruben Neves opened the scoring for the home side from the penalty spot after only nine minutes. The early goal gave Al-Hilal the perfect start in a match they needed to win to stay in contention for the championship. Simone Inzaghi's team maintained their narrow lead until halftime, with Neom unable to find an equalizer.
Second-Half Decisive Strike
Any nerves among Al-Hilal supporters were eased in the 57th minute when Sultan Mannish scored the second goal. He raced into the penalty area to meet a precise pass from Malcom that cut through the Neom defense, doubling the lead and effectively sealing the three points.
Title Race Down to the Wire
With both teams having played 33 matches, Al-Hilal now sit on 81 points, two behind Al-Nassr. Neom remain in eighth place with 44 points. The final round of matches will take place on Thursday, May 21. Al-Nassr will host Damac, while Al-Hilal travel to face Al-Fayha. Both matches will kick off simultaneously.
In other action, already-relegated Al-Okhdood defeated visiting Al-Khaleej 3-1.
