Al‑Hilal secured a convincing 3‑1 victory over rivals Al‑Ahli at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena on 2 February 2026, stretching their league lead to 48 points after 22 matches. The win, highlighted by goals from Bafétimbi Gomis and Lucas Silva, reinforces the Red Devils’ dominance in the Saudi Pro League and puts pressure on title challengers.
Match Overview
Al‑Hilal entered the Riyadh derby on a 12‑game unbeaten streak, while Al‑Ahli fought to escape a mid‑table slump. The hosts deployed a 4‑3‑4 system anchored by captain Mohammed Al‑Brek, with Yasser Al‑Shahrani at left‑back and a creative midfield trio of Salem Al‑Dawsari, Abdullah Al‑Mousa and newcomer Lucas “Luca” Silva. Up front, Bafétimbi Gomis partnered with wing‑back Salem Al‑Dawsari.
Al‑Ahli responded with a compact 4‑2‑3‑1, featuring goalkeeper Mohammed Al‑Owais and a midfield pivot of Fahad Al‑Muwallad and Saeed Al‑Qarni. Veteran striker Abdullah Al‑Fahad led the attack.
Key Moments
First Half – Early Dominance
In the 23rd minute, Gomis latched onto a low cross from Al‑Shahrani and side‑footed the ball past Al‑Owais for a 1‑0 lead. Before the break, Silva cut inside from the right flank and unleashed a curling shot from the edge of the box, finding the top corner to make it 2‑0.
Second Half – Al‑Ahli’s Response
Al‑Fahad reduced the deficit in the 58th minute after a well‑timed run and a low pass from Al‑Qarni, bringing the score to 2‑1. However, Hilal’s defence held firm.
Decisive Set‑Piece
In the 77th minute, Al‑Dawsari delivered a corner that Gomis met with a powerful header. The rebound was calmly slotted home by Al‑Shahrani, sealing a 3‑1 victory.
Statistical Highlights
- Possession: Al‑Hilal 58% – Al‑Ahli 42%
- Shots (on target): Hilal 14 (8) – Ahli 9 (4)
- Pass accuracy: Hilal 86% – Ahli 78%
- Key player ratings: Bafétimbi Gomis (8.5), Lucas Silva (8.2), Mohammed Al‑Brek (7.9) for Hilal; Abdullah Al‑Fahad (7.4) for Ahli.
Context and Title Implications
The win lifts Al‑Hilal to 48 points after 22 matches, extending their lead to six points over second‑placed Al‑Nassr. Their blend of seasoned internationals and emerging Saudi talent continues to drive domestic success and prepares them for upcoming AFC Champions League group matches.
Al‑Ahli remain in 9th place with 28 points, hampered by injuries and a lack of clinical finishing. The defeat underscores the need for defensive tightening and a reliable goal‑scoring outlet as the season approaches its final stretch.
Coach and Technical Director Insights
Al‑Ahli Coach Saeed Al‑Mansour
“Our high‑press plan worked early, but Silva’s creativity exposed our midfield depth. We must improve defensive transitions and set‑piece defending to compete with the league’s top sides.”
Al‑Hilal Technical Director Ahmed Al‑Jabri
“The squad’s depth and the mix of experience from Gomis with fresh impetus from Lucas Silva give us a tactical edge. We’ll rotate wisely to stay fresh for the continental campaign while securing the league title.”
Future Fixtures
Al‑Hilal travel to Jeddah next to face Al‑Ittihad, a clash that could further test their title credentials. Al‑Ahli host newly promoted Al‑Fateh, aiming to rebound and collect vital points.
