Al-Hilal defeated Neom 2–0, delivering a dramatic twist to the Saudi Pro League title race on Saturday in the penultimate (33rd) round.
Simone Inzaghi’s side entered the match knowing that anything less than a win would hand the title to Al-Nassr, who were five points ahead after their 4–2 victory over Al-Shabab earlier this month, following the dramatic 1–1 draw between the two rivals caused by a costly mistake from Al-Nassr goalkeeper Bento.
Al-Nassr had played their match against Al-Shabab on May 7 due to their commitment to the AFC Champions League 2 final against Japan’s Gamba Osaka.
Al-Hilal managed to delay Al-Nassr’s title celebrations to the final round thanks to two goals—one from Rúben Neves in the 10th minute from the penalty spot, and another from Sultan Mandash in the 58th minute.
Al-Hilal now have 81 points in second place, just two points behind leaders Al-Nassr, who still control their own fate. A win against Damac in the final round on May 21 will secure the title for Al-Nassr, regardless of Al-Hilal’s result against Al-Fayha on the same day.
