RIYADH — Al Hilal extended their dominance in the Saudi Professional League, securing a commanding 3-1 victory against Al Ittihad in the 22nd round of the competition on Friday.
This triumph propels Al Hilal to a commanding lead with 62 points at the summit of the league table, holding a substantial nine-point advantage over second-placed Al Nassr. The latter had a dramatic 4-4 draw with Al Hazm in the same round on Thursday.
On the other hand, Al Ittihad finds themselves at fifth place with 37 points after their points froze following this match.
Al Ittihad took an early lead in the 12th minute courtesy of N'Golo Kanté. However, Al Hilal managed to level the score in the 39th minute with a goal from Saleh Al Shehri.
The momentum swung further in Al Hilal's favor as they netted their second goal in the 59th minute through Malcom, and Saud Abdulhamid added a third in the 66th minute.
This win marks Al Hilal's first encounter against Al Ittihad in a series of three matches. They are set to face each other again next Tuesday in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals' first leg, followed by the second leg a week later.
From the early minutes, Al Hilal displayed an offensive strategy, while Al Ittihad countered, even in the absence of their French striker Karim Benzema.
Despite Al Ittihad's early lead, Al Hilal regained control in the second half. Malcom's header in the 59th minute and Abdulhamid's goal in the 66th minute showcased Al Hilal's determination to secure the victory.
Al Hilal's dominance continued, with Al Ittihad's goalkeeper Abdullah Al Mayouf making notable saves against his former team. Ahmed Hegazi's clearance in the 76th minute prevented Al Ittihad from conceding a fourth goal.
The final whistle confirmed Al Hilal's 3-1 victory, solidifying their position at the top of the league and setting the stage for their upcoming clashes in the AFC Champions League.
