Al-Hilal Narrow Gap at Top of Saudi Pro League with 3-2 Win Over Al-Khaleej

Al-Hilal moved within a single point of Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Nassr on Friday night after a thrilling 3-2 victory against Al-Khaleej. The win, under coach Simone Inzaghi, lifted Al-Hilal into second place, temporarily overtaking Al-Taawoun in the title race. Al-Nassr are set to host Al-Okhdood on Saturday.

The match in Dammam saw Al-Hilal take an early lead in the 18th minute when Mohammed Kanno capitalized on Hamad Al-Yami’s lay-off, sending a powerful long-range shot past Al-Khaleej goalkeeper Anthony Moris. The visitors doubled their advantage before halftime through Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who converted Malcom’s assist in the 39th minute, leaving Al-Khaleej with a difficult second half ahead.

Malcom sealed what looked like a comfortable three-goal cushion for Al-Hilal with a strike in the 57th minute. Al-Khaleej staged a late fightback, with Joshua King scoring in the 79th minute and Giorgos Masouras reducing the deficit to one goal five minutes later. Despite the late pressure, Al-Hilal held on to secure all three points.

The defeat leaves Al-Khaleej in eighth place with three matches remaining.

Earlier on Friday, Al-Taawoun briefly climbed to second place following a 2-0 away win against Al-Kholood at Al-Hazem Stadium. Christopher Zambrano opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, and William Troost-Ekong’s own goal in the 75th secured the victory. Al-Taawoun finished the match with 10 men after Muteb Al-Mufarrij was sent off in stoppage time, though the result was already assured. Al-Kholood remain 12th in the table.

The day’s action began with a surprising 2-1 home win for Al-Fateh against reigning Asian champions Al-Ahli. Al-Ahli initially took the lead through Valentin Atangana’s 22nd-minute goal, but Maria Vargas scored twice, before and after halftime, to secure the upset victory for Al-Fateh.

Friday’s results have intensified the battle at the top of the Saudi Pro League. Al-Hilal’s win has put them firmly in contention for the title, while Al-Taawoun now sit in third place. With Al-Nassr hosting Al-Okhdood on Saturday, the league’s leaders have an opportunity to extend their advantage and push closer to securing the championship.

The weekend promises more high-stakes encounters as clubs aim to strengthen their positions in the title race and in the fight for continental qualification. Al-Hilal’s late-season form will be crucial if they hope to overtake Al-Nassr and claim their spot at the summit.