Al Hilal Secures Victory with Late Neves Penalty Against Al Fateh
King Fahd International Stadium, Saudi Arabia — Al Hilal staged a determined comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Al Fateh on Saturday, thrilling the home supporters at the Kingdom Arena with a late penalty winner from Rúben Neves. The match featured three goals from the penalty spot, with Al Hilal overturning an early deficit to claim all three points in dramatic fashion.
The visitors stunned the home crowd early when Mourad Batna converted from the penalty spot in the ninth minute. The Moroccan forward stepped up with confidence and dispatched his penalty kick with precision, giving Al Fateh the advantage and silencing the typically boisterous Al Hilal supporters.
Al Hilal's response was swift and purposeful as they dominated possession following the early setback. Their persistence paid dividends in the 26th minute when Darwin Núñez found the equalizer. The Uruguayan striker showcased his finishing ability with a well-taken goal, breathing new life into both the team and their passionate supporters who erupted in celebration.
With the match hanging in the balance, both sides created opportunities throughout a tense second half. Al Hilal continued to press forward with increasing urgency as time ticked away, searching for the winner that would reward their territorial advantage. Their breakthrough finally came in the 88th minute when they were awarded a penalty of their own.
Portuguese midfielder Rúben Neves demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure, stepping up to take the crucial spot kick. With the game's outcome resting on his shoulders, Neves converted the penalty with authority, sending the Kingdom Arena into raptures as Al Hilal completed their comeback in the closing stages.
The victory extends Al Hilal's impressive home record this season, much to the delight of their faithful supporters who remained in full voice throughout the contest. For Al Fateh, it was a heartbreaking conclusion after their disciplined early performance had given them hope of securing a positive result. Despite the defeat, they showed resilience and quality that suggests they'll remain competitive in their upcoming fixtures.