In a thrilling semifinal match at Enma Stadium in Jeddah, Al Hilal overcame Al Ahli in a penalty shootout, winning 4-2 after the teams ended regular and extra time tied at 1-1.
The match saw Theo Hernandez score the opening goal for Al Hilal in the 39th minute, giving them a crucial lead. However, Al Ahli fought back, with Ivan Toney equalizing with a penalty in the 81st minute, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
With an attendance of 50,000 fans, the atmosphere was electric as both teams battled for a spot in the final of the King’s Cup. Al Hilal will now face Al Khulood Saudi in the championship match.
Al Ahli had entered the match on a high note, having recently defeated Al Ittihad 3-1 in the Sea Derby. Toney, who is the top scorer in the Roshn Saudi League with 24 goals this season, expressed the team’s determination, stating, “We knew it’s going to be tough; it’s derby day and we have to make sure we keep Jeddah green.”
During the match, Al Hilal showcased their strength with key players such as Yassine Bounou, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Rúben Neves contributing to their performance. Meanwhile, Al Ahli featured notable players including Riyad Mahrez, Franck Kessié, and Edouard Mendy.
The penalty shootout proved decisive, with Al Hilal converting four penalties while Al Ahli managed only two. “The score remained unchanged during extra time, leading the teams to a penalty shootout, which tipped the balance in favor of Al-Hilal,” commented an observer.
Al Ahli currently sits at the top of the league table, just one point ahead of Al Nassr and Al Hilal, highlighting their strong season despite this setback.
As the teams reflect on this intense match, the excitement continues to build for Al Hilal’s upcoming final, where they will seek to add another title to their storied history.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the implications of this match on the league standings, but the rivalry between these two prominent teams in Saudi Arabian football is sure to continue.
