The 2025-26 Saudi Pro League kicked off on Friday with emphatic wins for two of its biggest clubs, as Al-Nassr thrashed Al-Taawoun 5-0 and Al-Hilal eased past Al-Riyadh 2-0 in Riyadh.
Al-Nassr’s new signing Joao Felix marked his league debut with a stunning hat-trick, immediately underlining his potential impact following his summer move from Chelsea. The Portuguese forward needed just seven minutes to get on the scoresheet, converting a first-time shot into the far corner after Angelo’s cutback from the left.
Cristiano Ronaldo doubled the visitors’ lead from the penalty spot in the 54th minute after a handball inside the area. Within a minute, Kingsley Coman, another high-profile arrival, netted his first goal in Saudi Arabia with a header that effectively ended the contest.
Felix added his second midway through the second half with a powerful strike from distance, before sealing his hat-trick – and Al-Nassr’s fifth – from close range late on. The dominant display served as a statement of intent for Luis Castro’s side as they look to challenge for the league title this season.
Earlier in the day, Al-Nassr’s Riyadh rivals and last season’s runners-up, Al-Hilal, also began their campaign with three points under new coach Simone Inzaghi. The 19-time champions, who impressed during the FIFA Club World Cup this summer, took control in the first half against Al-Riyadh and never looked back.
After an early strike from new signing Darwin Nunez was disallowed, Al-Hilal broke the deadlock midway through the first half. Salem Al-Dawsari set up Moteb Al-Harbi, who unleashed a fierce left-footed shot from the edge of the box that gave goalkeeper Milan Borjan no chance.
Al-Dawsari was involved again shortly before the break, combining with Brazilian playmaker Malcom for a slick one-two. Malcom, now wearing the No. 10 shirt, finished with a precise curling effort into the bottom corner to double the lead.
While the hosts could not extend their advantage in the second half, Inzaghi’s side looked comfortable throughout, securing a confident opening win as they set their sights on reclaiming the league crown.
In Friday’s other match, Al-Khaleej defeated Al-Shabab 4-1 in another commanding away performance. Defending champions Al-Ittihad will begin their title defense on Saturday with a trip to Al-Okhdood.
With new marquee signings making an immediate impact and title rivals starting strongly, the opening weekend has already set the stage for a highly competitive Saudi Pro League season.
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