Aleksandar Mitrovic and Salem Al Dawsari were the stars of the show in the Saudi Clasico between Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, scoring goals to secure a 3-1 victory for the hosts. However, it was Ruben Neves who stole the spotlight with his exceptional performance on the field. Neves provided two crucial assists that helped Al Hilal dominate the match from the beginning. His playmaking ability was on full display as he set up Mitrovic for the opening goal with a perfectly curled cross and released Al Dawsari with a long pass for the third goal. Neves was named Man of the Match for his outstanding contributions.
Neves, who joined Al Hilal from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023, has proven to be a key player for the team this season. In the Saudi Clasico, he excelled in a midfield battle against top players like Fabinho, N’Golo Kante, and Houssem Aouar. Neves dominated various metrics, completing the highest number of passes and touches on the field. He also created four chances, completed all six of his attempted dribbles, and made six ball recoveries, showcasing his all-around skills. Neves ranks highly in the league for chances created and passes in the opposition half, highlighting his importance to Al Hilal’s midfield.
Neves’s performance in the Saudi Clasico is indicative of his form throughout the season, where he has consistently been a standout player for Al Hilal. His ability to maintain control and composure in high-stakes matches like the Saudi Clasico underscores his talent and leadership on the field. As Al Hilal aims to retain their RSL crown, Neves’s contributions will be crucial. If he continues his exceptional form, he could lead the team to another championship title, establishing himself as the conductor of the champions’ midfield.
With this victory against Al Ittihad, Al Hilal has moved to the top of the league standings, handing their opponents their first defeat of the season. The team now holds a perfect record and looks ahead to maintaining their strong position in the league. Neves’s role in Al Hilal’s success cannot be understated, as his performance in the Saudi Clasico was instrumental in securing the victory. His playmaking abilities and influence in midfield make him a key player for Al Hilal as they strive for continued success this season.
In a match where goals were essential, Neves proved his worth by not only providing assists but also excelling in ball recoveries, passes, and touches. His ability to control the midfield against tough opponents showcases his skill and expertise. As Al Hilal’s conductor in midfield, Neves will be relied upon to continue delivering standout performances and leading the team to victory. The Saudi Clasico was another example of Neves’s impact on the field, solidifying his position as a key player for Al Hilal and a potential game-changer in future matches.