Al-Hilal, coached by Portuguese Jorge Jesus, defeated Al-Taawon 2-0 at home this Saturday in the eighth round of the Saudi League, marking eight victories that secure them the top spot in the championship.
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Portuguese right-back João Cancelo’s role was pivotal from the start as Al-Hilal continued their unbeaten streak under manager Jorge Jesus.
Cancelo’s skillful delivery in the 15th minute set up Serbian forward Aleksandar Mitrovic, who deftly converted the cross, giving Al-Hilal an early advantage. This moment showcased the team’s fluid attack and Cancelo's importance in the lineup, adding creativity and precision from the flanks.
In the opening moments of the second half, Al-Taawon posed a significant challenge, almost narrowing the gap when Brazilian forward João Pedro found the back of the net. However, after a tense VAR review, the goal was disallowed, sparing Al-Hilal from an intense momentum shift and allowing them to maintain control of the match. This disallowed goal underlined the value of Al-Hilal’s defensive organization, which remained steadfast even during high-pressure situations.
The game’s decisive moment came in the 62nd minute, courtesy of Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Taking advantage of an error by Al-Taawon’s goalkeeper, Milinkovic-Savic calmly slotted the ball into the net, securing a comfortable 2-0 lead for Al-Hilal. His goal not only underscored his growing influence on the team but also highlighted the depth and talent of Al-Hilal’s squad, which boasts both creativity and finishing ability across multiple positions.
Al-Hilal managed their lead effectively for the remainder of the match, showcasing a balanced and disciplined performance. With Portuguese international Rúben Neves sidelined due to injury, which is expected to keep him out for an extended period, Al-Hilal relied on their remaining midfield strength to maintain structure and control. Neves’s absence has raised concerns, but the team’s recent performances suggest they have the depth to navigate his recovery period successfully.
This victory propels Jorge Jesus’s squad to the top of the league standings with 24 points, solidifying their position as the team to beat in the Saudi League. They are now three points clear of Al-Ittihad, who hold 21 points, and six points ahead of Al-Nassr, with Al-Shabab trailing with 15 points under the guidance of Portuguese coach Vítor Pereira.
Aleksandar Mitrovic’s goal solidifies his position at the top of the league’s scoring chart with 10 goals, ahead of notable strikers such as Karim Benzema, who has netted eight goals for Al-Ittihad, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who follows with six goals for Al-Nassr. Mitrovic’s prolific form has been a cornerstone of Al-Hilal’s success this season, providing a reliable source of goals that continues to propel the team forward.
Al-Hilal’s form under Jorge Jesus has generated high expectations, with the team’s tactical discipline and attacking versatility making them clear contenders for the title. As the season progresses, their ability to maintain this momentum, particularly against top rivals, will be key to securing their place at the pinnacle of Saudi football. With challenging fixtures ahead, including encounters with league contenders Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, the next few rounds will be crucial in determining whether Al-Hilal can sustain their lead and deliver a championship-winning campaign.
Updated: 12:47, 27 Oct 2024
