Al Hilal Closes Gap on Al-Nassr with Dominant Win Over Al-Khaleej

Key facts

• Al Hilal defeated Al Khaleej 3-0 in the Saudi Pro League on May 5, 2026.
• The match was officiated by a Latvian refereeing team.
• Al Hilal sits second in the league with 77 points, one point behind Al-Nassr.
• Karim Benzema was excluded from the starting lineup for the match.
• Al Hilal will face Al-Khaleej in the King's Cup final.
• The top three positions qualify for the AFC Champions League Elite.
• Positions 16-18 face relegation.
• Al Hilal's defensive star is injured and will miss the King's Cup final.

Pressure Mounts at the Top

Al Hilal kept their title hopes alive with a commanding 3-0 victory over Al Khaleej on May 5, 2026, narrowing the gap to league leaders Al-Nassr to a single point. With 77 points from 28 matches, the Riyadh side remains in second place, maintaining relentless pressure on the defending champions as the season enters its decisive phase. The win was overseen by a Latvian refereeing crew, a rare international appointment for a Saudi Pro League fixture. The result extends Al Hilal's unbeaten run and sets the stage for a dramatic finish to the campaign.

Benzema Benched as Inzaghi Explains Decision

Karim Benzema, Al Hilal's star striker, was left out of the starting lineup against Al Khaleej, a decision that raised eyebrows among fans and pundits. Coach Simone Inzaghi later explained the move, citing tactical considerations and the need to manage the squad's workload ahead of the King's Cup final. Benzema's exclusion did not weaken the team's attack, as Al Hilal scored three goals without him. The French international's role in the upcoming final remains a subject of speculation, with Inzaghi likely to rotate his squad further.

Defensive Blow Ahead of King's Cup Final

Al Hilal will be without a key defensive player for the King's Cup final against Al-Khaleej, after the defender sustained an injury in the lead-up to the match. The club has not disclosed the severity of the injury, but the absence is a significant setback for a team that prides itself on defensive solidity. The final, scheduled for later this month, pits the same two teams against each other in a cup decider. Al Hilal's depth will be tested as they aim to add another trophy to their cabinet.

Title Race Intensifies as Al-Nassr Stumble

Al Hilal's victory came as Al-Nassr dropped points in their own fixture, allowing the gap to shrink to just one point. With four matches remaining, the title race is finely balanced. Al Hilal's remaining fixtures include matches against mid-table sides, while Al-Nassr face tougher opposition. The top three positions guarantee qualification for the AFC Champions League Elite, adding further incentive for both clubs. Relegation threatens the bottom three, though Al Hilal is far from that danger.

Transfer Rumors and Off-Field Drama

Off the pitch, Al Hilal continues to make headlines. The club is reportedly interested in signing Darwin Núñez, though his future remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Barcelona is preparing an alternative to João Cancelo in case a deal with Al Hilal falls through. Inter Milan has rejected Al Hilal's approaches for sporting director Piero Ausilio, extending his contract instead. Inzaghi's agent also denied rumors that the coach requested the signing of Raphinha, clarifying the club's transfer strategy.

Looking Ahead: King's Cup and League Decider

Al Hilal's immediate focus is the King's Cup final against Al-Khaleej, a rematch of their league encounter. The club's eternal president has emotionally stated that he would cry if they win the cup, underscoring the significance of the occasion. In the league, Al Hilal must win all remaining matches and hope Al-Nassr slips up. The team's depth and experience could prove decisive in the run-in, but the injury to their defensive star is a concern.

The bottom line

• Al Hilal's 3-0 win over Al-Khaleej cuts Al-Nassr's lead to one point in the Saudi Pro League.
• Karim Benzema was benched for tactical reasons, with coach Inzaghi managing squad fitness.
• A key defender will miss the King's Cup final due to injury.
• The top three positions qualify for the AFC Champions League Elite; relegation threatens the bottom three.
• Al Hilal is linked with Darwin Núñez, while Barcelona eyes Cancelo alternatives.
• Inter Milan retained Piero Ausilio despite Al Hilal's interest.