In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the first football team of Al Hilal added three new records to its illustrious history, securing a 2-0 victory against Al Wehda in the 17th round of the Saudi Professional League.
The right-back, Saud Abdulhameed, and the Serbian striker, Aleksandar Mitrović, found the back of the net in the 20th and 80th minutes, respectively, sealing the team’s triumph. This victory marked Al Hilal’s tenth consecutive win in the Roshan Saudi League, a streak that commenced after a draw against Damac in the seventh round. Subsequently, the team secured consecutive victories against Al Shabab, Al Ahli, Al Khaleej, Al Fateh, Al Taawoun, Al Hazm, Al Nassr, and Al Ta’ee before facing and defeating Al Wehda.
This winning streak equals Al Hilal’s longest series of victories set during the 2012-2013 season, stretching from the fifth to the fourteenth round. The team’s current tally of 15 wins in the league after 17 matches surpasses the achievements of the 2009-2010 season, where they won 14 matches and suffered three defeats. The victory over Al Wahda propelled Al Hilal to 47 points, surpassing the 2009-2010 season’s 44 points after 17 matches.
With 50 goals scored in the first 17 matches, Al Hilal outperformed its own record of 48 goals during the same period in the 2009-2010 season. This marks the eighth time the capital-based team concludes the first 17 matches as the league leaders.
In a poignant moment, the Al Hilal supporters paid tribute to the late Prince Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saud Al Kabeer, the former club president, by displaying a giant banner with his image and the words “To the Eternal Paradise.” This heartfelt gesture occurred two days after the passing of the iconic figure.
Furthermore, Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrović extended his goal-scoring streak to eight consecutive matches in the Roshan League, achieving this feat for the first time in league competitions. This accomplishment breaks Mitrović’s previous record set during the last season when he scored in seven consecutive matches for Fulham in the English Championship.
The French forward Bafétimbi Gomis, a former player for Al Hilal, received a warm welcome from the fans during his attendance at the match against Al Wahda. Fans enthusiastically sought selfies with Gomis, displaying their enduring affection for the player.
In an unexpected turn of events, the allocated seats for Al Wehda supporters were closed due to their absence at the match against Al Hilal, leading to the closure of designated sections in Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium.
In conclusion, Al Hilal’s latest victory not only extended their lead in the league but also etched new records in the annals of Saudi football. The team’s relentless pursuit of excellence and the poignant tribute to their late president added emotional layers to an already historic moment for the Hilal faithful. As they continue their remarkable journey, Al Hilal stands tall, embodying the spirit of champions in every stride on the football pitch.
