Al-Hilal begins Saudi Pro League campaign with dominant 3-0 win over Al-Okhdoud
Al-Hilal opened their Saudi Pro League campaign in dominant fashion, securing a 3-0 victory over Al-Okhdoud on Saturday. A brace from Aleksandar Mitrovic and a stunning free-kick by Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in the first half ensured an emphatic win for Jorge Jesus’ side.
From the outset, Al-Hilal demonstrated why they are considered top contenders for the league title. Just one minute into the match, Mitrovic converted a well-executed combination play, finishing a pass from Abdullah Al-Hamdan to give his team an early lead. The Serbian striker's instinctive goal highlighted his sharpness in front of goal and set the tone for the rest of the game.
Al-Hilal continued to pile on the pressure, launching consistent counterattacks as they sought to extend their advantage. The second goal came in the 40th minute when Mitrovic headed in another perfect cross from Al-Hamdan, solidifying the growing partnership between the two. Their chemistry is expected to be a key talking point throughout the season.
Just before half-time, Al-Hilal's Yasser Al-Qahtani, who was lively throughout the match, won a dangerous free-kick on the edge of the box. Milinkovic-Savic stepped up and delivered a magnificent free-kick, leaving Al-Okhdoud's goalkeeper Paulo Vitor with no chance. The Serbian midfielder showcased his class, further proving he remains an elite player in world football.
Mitrovic’s performance, with two goals, continued to underline his exceptional goal-scoring ability. The Serbian now has 25 goals in 2024, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo by three. His positioning and efficiency in front of goal are unmatched, making him one of the most lethal forwards in the league.
The second half saw a more controlled approach from Al-Hilal as they focused on maintaining possession and dictating the tempo of the game. Al-Okhdoud improved their performance, competing more evenly, but they struggled to break down the reigning champions. Al-Hilal's Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was forced into a remarkable save to preserve his side's clean sheet.
Despite Mitrovic’s attempts to secure a hat-trick, he could not find the net again. However, Al-Hilal’s dominance was never in doubt. Their impressive control of the game in the first 45 minutes and their ability to create and finish chances emphasised their superiority in the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Hilal’s firepower, combined with their tactical discipline, marks them as the team to beat this season.