King’s Cup crown on the line as Al Hilal faces Al Kholood

Al Hilal players, led by Karim Benzema, are preparing for the final.

RIYADH, May 7: Al Hilal meets Al Kholood Club in today’s King’s Cup final, with the giant chasing silverware and the underdog dreaming of a historic upset.

Al Hilal, led by Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, is targeting a long-awaited trophy as he approaches a year in charge since replacing Jorge Jesus. Despite exiting the AFC Champions League Elite, it remains firmly in contention for domestic honours and now stands one step away from lifting the King’s Cup.

Al Kholood, currently 14th in the Saudi Pro League, has been the surprise package of the tournament. It stunned defending champion Al Ittihad in the semi-finals on penalties, mirroring Al Hilal SFC’s own shootout win over Al Ahli.

Al Hilal is looking to bounce back after last season’s quarter-final exit to Al Ittihad, with its last King’s Cup triumph coming two seasons ago against Al Nassr — its record-extending 11th title.

For Al Kholood Club, English coach Des Buckingham knows the unpredictability of cup football offers a rare chance to make history, with just one match standing between them and a landmark achievement.