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Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Al Hilal returned to winning ways in the Saudi Pro League and regained the top spot with a 3-1 victory over Al Ettifaq in Round 10.
The win brought Al Hilal’s points total to 28, putting them at the top of the table, while Al Ettifaq continued their winless streak, remaining on 11 points after six consecutive matches without a win.
Al Hilal appeared on course for a goalless draw in the first half as Al Ettifaq displayed excellent defensive organization, preventing many attacks on their goal.
However, just before halftime, Serbian striker Mitrovic found space behind the defense and connected with a perfect cross from Brazilian Lodi in the second minute of stoppage time, scoring the opening goal for Al Hilal.
Al Hilal’s captain, Salem Al Dawsari, was forced off in the 78th minute due to injury, and Portuguese coach Jesus substituted him with Mohammad Al Qahtani.
Al Ettifaq, trying to get back into the game, showed some attacking intent, but Al Hilal’s defense stood strong, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou also making crucial saves.
Brazilian forward Malcolm doubled Al Hilal’s lead in the 81st minute, receiving a perfect pass from substitute Abdullah Al Hamdan, rounding Al Ettifaq’s goalkeeper, and finishing into the net.
The excitement continued in the final moments, with a penalty awarded to Al Ettifaq in the third minute of stoppage time. Brazilian Vitinho stepped up and scored to pull one back for his side.
However, Al Hilal wasted no time in restoring their two-goal lead, with Mohammad Al Qahtani scoring the third with a brilliant solo effort in the seventh minute of added time, sealing the win and confirming Al Hilal’s rightful claim to the three points.
Al Ettifaq’s Abdullah Radif, a substitute striker, was shown a red card in the ninth minute of stoppage time following an altercation with Al Hilal’s defender Ali Al Bulayhi.
