In a match that will be remembered for its drama and excitement, Salem Al-Dawsari’s remarkable hat-trick propelled Al-Hilal to a 5-4 victory over defending champions Al-Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday. The high-scoring encounter not only showcased Al-Dawsari’s brilliance but also marked the much-anticipated return of Neymar to competitive football.
Neymar, sidelined since a cruciate ligament rupture last October, made his comeback as a 77th-minute substitute. Despite his return, it was Al-Dawsari who stole the spotlight, guiding his team to avenge last season’s semi-final loss against Al-Ain. The victory was even more impressive as Al-Hilal played the closing stages with ten men.
The win keeps Al-Hilal atop the league standings in West Asia after three rounds, with nine points. They are joined at the summit by fellow Saudi side Al-Ahli, who secured a 2-1 win over Qatar’s Al-Rayyan. Gabri Veiga’s direct corner goal gave Al-Ahli an early lead, and Feras Al-Brikan’s header extended it, despite a nervy finish after an own goal reduced the deficit.
Elsewhere, Qatar’s Al-Sadd earned their second win of the campaign, moving to seven points after Matheus Uribe’s first-half goal secured a 1-0 victory over Iran’s Persepolis. Al-Shorta of Iraq and Uzbekistan’s Pakhtakor played out a goalless draw.
A Nine-Goal Thriller in Al-Ain
Al-Hilal’s triumph at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium was a masterclass in resilience and attacking football. The match saw both Al-Dawsari and Al-Ain’s Soufiane Rahimi score hat-tricks, captivating fans with end-to-end action.
“There were a lot of goals, a lot of chances, and we managed to win the game with one player less in the end, so it’s a big win for us,” said Al-Hilal striker Aleksandar Mitrovic after the match.
The visitors took the lead in the 26th minute when Renan Lodi’s low strike found the net. Rahimi equalized for Al-Ain six minutes before halftime, but Al-Hilal struck twice in injury time through Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s header and an acute-angle finish from Al-Dawsari, taking a 3-1 advantage into the break.
The second half was a rollercoaster. Mateo Sanabria reduced the deficit for Al-Ain in the 63rd minute, but Al-Dawsari responded almost immediately with his second goal. Rahimi scored again for Al-Ain in the 67th minute, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Al-Dawsari completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute, seemingly sealing the win for Al-Hilal. Neymar’s introduction added to the excitement, as fans eagerly awaited his impact after a long injury layoff.
However, the drama was far from over. Ali Al-Bulahyi received a red card for handball just outside the area, leaving Al-Hilal to defend their lead with ten men. In stoppage time, Rahimi was fouled by Khalifah Al-Dawsari and completed his own hat-trick from the penalty spot, making it 5-4.
Despite the late pressure, Al-Hilal held on for a memorable victory, maintaining their perfect record in the competition. Al-Ain, still searching for their first win in the revamped format, will look to regroup in the upcoming matches.
Looking Ahead
The AFC Champions League’s new structure sees the top eight finishers in the league phase from both East and West Asia advance to the knockout rounds. Al-Hilal’s impressive start has them well-positioned, while other teams continue to battle for qualification.
For football enthusiasts and analysts alike, the match between Al-Hilal and Al-Ain offered a feast of goals and an exhibition of talent. With players like Al-Dawsari stepping up and stars like Neymar returning to action, the competition promises more thrilling encounters in the weeks ahead.
Reference(s):
Al-Dawsari's hat-trick overshadows Neymar's return, seals Al-Hilal win
cgtn.com
