Al Hilal Saudi FC vs Neom SC Highlights & Replay

The Saudi Pro League delivered another high-stakes clash as giants Al Hilal Saudi FC faced off against a resilient Neom SC side. With both teams eager to assert their dominance, the atmosphere was electric from the opening whistle.

A Nightmare Start for the Giants

On September 7, 2026, the match's trajectory was set early in a way that no one at Al Hilal could have anticipated. In the 16th minute, veteran defender Kalidou Koulibaly endured a nightmare moment, inadvertently turning the ball into his own net to give Neom SC an unexpected lead. This early setback rattled the home side, who struggled to find their usual fluid rhythm against a disciplined opposition.

As the first half progressed, Al Hilal's frustration began to boil over. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic was shown a yellow card in the 23rd minute, symbolizing the team's difficulty in gaining control. Just as the half seemed destined to end with a single-goal deficit, Neom SC struck again. In the 45th minute, Amadou Kone found the target with a clinical finish, doubling the lead to 2-0 and leaving the favorites with a mountain to climb after the break.

Tactical Shifts and Discipline Struggles

Seeking a spark, Al Hilal made a bold triple substitution at the start of the second half, bringing on Sultan Mandash, Nasser Al-Dawsari, and Mohammed Al Burayk. Despite the fresh legs, the game became increasingly fractious. A flurry of yellow cards followed, with Mohamed Kanno, Crysencio Summerville, and Al Burayk all entering the referee's book. Neom SC remained composed, though Muhannad Al Saad also picked up a caution during this intense period of play.

Neom Holds Firm for Victory

The closing stages saw Neom SC expertly manage their advantage. A series of tactical substitutions in the 84th minute saw stars like Alexandre Lacazette and Gabriel Martinelli make way for Valentin Vada and Ahmed Al Anazi to shore up the midfield and defense. Despite a late yellow card for goalscorer Amadou Kone, Neom SC successfully navigated through stoppage time. When the final whistle blew at 90+2 minutes, they had secured a stunning victory, leaving Al Hilal to reflect on a day where everything went wrong.