Sports

Al-Hilal's Unbeaten Run Ends as NEOM Claim Surprise 2-0 Win

By FotMob

Al-Hilal's flawless start to the Saudi Pro League season was halted on Monday as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to NEOM at Kingdom Arena, ending their bid for six straight wins.

An own goal from Kalidou Koulibaly and a late first-half strike from Amadou Kone secured the win for Christophe Galtier's side, lifting NEOM to fourth place in the early standings.

Gabriel Martinelli, making his first start for Al-Hilal following his £60.1 million move from Arsenal, tested NEOM goalkeeper Marcin Bulka within the opening minute. NEOM responded with their own threat, as Alexandre Lacazette forced a save from Mohammed Al Owais before the visitors took the lead in the 15th minute. Muhannad Al Saad's shot deflected off Koulibaly and into his own net as he attempted to clear the ball.

Al-Hilal struggled to create clear chances afterward, and their difficulties deepened just before halftime. Lacazette's header from a corner kick struck the crossbar, with Kone converting the rebound from close range to double NEOM's lead.

After the break, Al-Hilal intensified their pressure, but Bulka produced a remarkable save to deny captain Mohamed Kanno. The goalkeeper also stopped two attempts from Ollie Watkins in quick succession. Late in the match, Haroune Camara nearly extended NEOM's lead following a fast counterattack, but his shot was blocked by Al Owais. In stoppage time, Mohamed Meite's header struck the woodwork, but Al-Hilal could not find an equalizer.

Despite entering the match as the league's top scorers with 17 goals this season, Al-Hilal's attack was neutralized by NEOM's resilient defense, with Bulka making five crucial saves to preserve the shutout. Al-Hilal generated an expected goals (xG) total of 1.74 from 20 attempts but lacked precision in front of goal. Watkins led the team with five shots, three on target, and eight touches inside the box, but failed to add to his debut goal.

NEOM's defense, particularly Malang Sarr, played a pivotal role in the victory. Sarr recorded team-high totals in tackles won (two), clearances (10), and possession won (seven), while Mohannad Abu Taha led the team with four interceptions, just ahead of Sarr's three.

The loss also ended Al-Hilal's 23-match unbeaten streak at Kingdom Arena, their first such defeat there since losing to Al-Khaleej in April 2025.

Despite the setback, Al-Hilal remain atop the league standings after six matches. However, Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah, managed by Simone Inzaghi, have the opportunity to draw level on points later this week when they face Abha and Al-Ahli, respectively.