KING FAHD INTERNATIONAL STADIUM, SAUDI ARABIA — Al Hilal delivered a masterclass of attacking football, dismantling Al Fayha 4-1 in a comprehensive Saudi Pro League encounter that showcased their offensive firepower and tactical brilliance. The home side's overwhelming dominance was evident from the opening whistle, with their 66.1% possession translating into a relentless and methodical assault on the visitors' goal.
The match began with an unexpected twist when Fashion Sakala gave Al Fayha a surprising 14th-minute lead, momentarily silencing the home crowd. However, Al Hilal's response was immediate and devastating. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, the midfield maestro, equalized in the 37th minute with a goal that would prove to be a crucial turning point. His clinical finish not only leveled the score but also shifted the match's momentum decisively in Al Hilal's favor.
Mohamed Kanno extended Al Hilal's lead in the 61st minute, converting a meticulously crafted move that epitomized the team's tactical sophistication. The goal was a testament to Al Hilal's patient build-up play and clinical finishing, effectively putting them in complete control of the contest. Al Fayha found themselves overwhelmed, struggling to contain the home side's fluid and dynamic attacking movements. Al Hilal launched an impressive 19 shots compared to the visitors' meager 9 attempts, highlighting their offensive superiority.
The match statistics painted a compelling narrative of Al Hilal's comprehensive dominance. Controlling 66.1% possession, they consistently pinned Al Fayha back, winning 7 corners and maintaining relentless pressure. Their tactical precision was matched by clinical efficiency, with 5 shots on target compared to Al Fayha's 2, underlining their attacking prowess and strategic approach.
Marcos Leonardo provided the final flourish in the 90th minute, sealing a comprehensive 4-1 victory that will undoubtedly boost Al Hilal's confidence and league standing. The goal was a fitting conclusion to a performance that demonstrated the team's remarkable attacking depth and tactical flexibility. Throughout the match, Al Hilal's players moved with purpose and precision, systematically dismantling Al Fayha's defensive resistance.
The victory continues Al Hilal's impressive recent form, building on previous dominant performances in the Saudi Pro League. Their ability to recover from an early concession and transform the game through intelligent play and clinical finishing marks them as a team with genuine championship potential. The way they responded to Sakala's early goal showcased their mental resilience and tactical adaptability.
Looking ahead, Al Hilal will travel to face Al Riyadh on January 24, carrying significant momentum from this impressive victory. For Al Fayha, their upcoming fixture against Al Fateh presents an opportunity to regroup and address the defensive vulnerabilities exposed in this match.
This comprehensive win not only secures three crucial points but also sends a powerful message to their league rivals about Al Hilal's attacking prowess, tactical sophistication, and their status as a formidable force in the Saudi Pro League.