Al-Hilal begins King’s Cup title defense with a comfortable win

Al Hilal player scores from the spot.

RIYADH, Aug 18: Al-Hilal opened its King’s Cup title defense with a 2-0 victory over first-division side Al-Raed, booking its place in the round of 16.

Ruben Neves was the star of the match, scoring once in each half to send the defending champions through without conceding.

Elsewhere, Al-Fayha defeated Al-Adalah 2-0 thanks to a brace from Hugo Mora, while Al-Ahli edged Al-Anwar 2-1. Al-Qadsiah cruised past Al-Tai 5-0, and Al-Riyadh secured a 2-0 win over Al-Zulfi.

Al-Hilal goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais has meanwhile revealed the club’s lofty ambitions for the season, describing the Saudi giants as the ultimate destination for players competing in Asia.

Speaking to Thmanyah after the game, Al-Owais highlighted Al-Hilal’s demanding schedule, noting that the club could play around 60 matches in a season compared with roughly 30 for many other teams.

He said the packed calendar and changes to the fixture schedule have increased his chances of getting regular playing time, even as the team’s second-choice goalkeeper.

“I believe Al-Hilal is the biggest destination for any Saudi or foreign player in Asia and the world,” Al-Owais said.

The goalkeeper also stressed that Al-Hilal’s ambitions extend beyond domestic and continental success, with the club targeting the biggest prize on the international stage.

“Al-Hilal does not represent itself only domestically. We are present at the Club World Cup and international competitions. I believe our ambition today is to win the Club World Cup, and that goal is achievable,” he said.