Al-Hilal Saudi FC vs Al-Ettifaq Result
Pro League · Saudi-Arabia
Al-Hilal Saudi FC
Full Time
Al-Ettifaq
📍 Kingdom Arena, Riyadh
🗓️ Friday, 13 Feb 2026 at 15:25
Al-Hilal Cruise Past Al-Ettifaq with Clinical First-Half Display
Al-Hilal Saudi FC asserted their dominance at Kingdom Arena with a commanding 2-0 victory over Al-Ettifaq, sealing the result with a pair of well-taken goals in the opening half. The hosts, lining up in a fluid 4-3-3, controlled proceedings from the outset, capitalizing on their early momentum to break the deadlock in the 13th minute and doubling their advantage before the half-hour mark. Al-Ettifaq, set up defensively in a 5-4-1, struggled to contain Al-Hilal's attacking trident and rarely threatened at the other end. Despite Al-Ettifaq's attempts to regroup after the interval, Al-Hilal maintained their grip on the match, dictating possession (59%) and creating the lion's share of chances (17 shots, 8 on target). The visitors mustered only two shots on target and, hampered by two yellow cards, were unable to disrupt Al-Hilal's rhythm. Ultimately, the home side's early clinical edge and midfield control proved decisive as they secured a deserved three points.
Al-Hilal Saudi FC
Al-Hilal delivered a professional and assured performance, blending attacking flair with defensive solidity. Their 4-3-3 formation allowed them to dominate the midfield, orchestrate attacks from wide areas, and keep Al-Ettifaq pinned back for long stretches. The early goals gave them the platform to manage the game, and they showed maturity in controlling tempo and limiting risks after the break. With 17 shots and 8 on target, Al-Hilal's front line was consistently dangerous, while the back four and Bono in goal kept a comfortable clean sheet.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Al-Ettifaq
Al-Ettifaq set up with a defensive 5-4-1 formation, aiming to frustrate Al-Hilal, but struggled to contain the hosts' early onslaught. Conceding twice in the first half left them chasing the game, and their limited attacking ambition was reflected in just 10 shots (only 2 on target). The midfield was often overrun, and the front line was isolated, with K. Al Ghannam starved of service. Two yellow cards further hampered their ability to press or disrupt Al-Hilal's rhythm, and while they showed some resilience after the break, they rarely looked like mounting a comeback.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Key Moments
13' — Goal
K. Benzema opens the scoring for Al-Hilal, finishing off a slick attacking move.
31' — Goal
Malcom doubles Al-Hilal's lead, capping another incisive attack.
40' — Yellow Card
A. A. Khateeb booked for a late challenge, reflecting Al-Ettifaq's growing frustration.
67' — Yellow Card
F. Calvo receives a yellow card for a tactical foul as Al-Hilal break forward.
Tactical Analysis
Al-Hilal's 4-3-3 formation allowed them to dominate the ball and stretch Al-Ettifaq's five-man back line, exploiting space in wide areas with Malcom and S. Al Dawsari. The midfield trio, anchored by R. Neves, provided both defensive cover and creative impetus, ensuring Al-Ettifaq rarely gained a foothold. Al-Ettifaq's 5-4-1 was designed for containment, but the lack of midfield presence left them vulnerable to overloads and unable to transition effectively. Al-Hilal's pressing was coordinated, forcing turnovers high up the pitch, while their set-piece threat was evident with seven corners, though not converted into further goals.
Turning Point
Benzema's 13th-minute opener shattered Al-Ettifaq's defensive game plan and set Al-Hilal firmly in control.
Man of the Match
K. Benzema
His early goal and all-round link-up play were pivotal in breaking down Al-Ettifaq's resistance and setting the tone for Al-Hilal's win.