Al-Hilal earned a stunning 1-1 draw against European champions Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup, delivering a performance that drew widespread praise across the football world.
The Saudi club, under new head coach Simone Inzaghi, impressed fans and pundits alike at Hard Rock Stadium in Washington with their tactical discipline, individual brilliance, and spirited resolve.
Goalkeeper Yassine “Bono” Bounou emerged as the star of the evening after saving a stoppage-time penalty from Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde, ensuring Al-Hilal walked away with a well-deserved point.
The Moroccan international, who starred in Morocco’s historic 2022 World Cup run to the semifinals, was lauded by media outlets and fans on social media.
“Penalty in the 90th minute against Real Madrid? Not a problem when you have Yassine Bounou,” tweeted @MoroccanGrinta, while sports publication Marca praised his instinctive save, calling it a “moment of world-class brilliance.”
Al-Hilal’s captain Salem Al-Dawsari also garnered acclaim, especially for his performance against Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was making his debut for the Spanish side following a high-profile summer transfer from Liverpool.
The 33-year-old Al-Dawsari, already a national hero in Saudi Arabia for scoring the winning goal against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, tormented Real Madrid’s right flank throughout the match.
“Salem Al-Dawsari is a super player — and he’s had an excellent half. Causing all kinds of problems down Real’s right,” tweeted Seb Stafford-Bloor of The Athletic, while others on X (formerly Twitter) joked that “Trent got cooked” by the veteran winger.
The praise extended to Simone Inzaghi, who took charge of Al-Hilal following his departure from Inter Milan, where he led the club to two UEFA Champions League finals.
The Washington Post highlighted the Italian’s bravery in taking on a new challenge outside Europe, while Al Jazeera credited Inzaghi’s tactics and team organization, noting that “Al-Hilal showed defensive grit and enough attacking intent to rattle their illustrious opponents.”
Despite missing Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic due to injury, Al-Hilal looked threatening on the break and kept Real Madrid on edge for much of the match.
The BBC compared Inzaghi’s managerial debut with that of Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso, concluding that “Inzaghi will likely be the more satisfied.” Real Madrid, who fielded several first-team regulars, struggled in the Miami heat and failed to dominate possession as expected.
Their lone goal came through a set piece, while Al-Hilal’s equaliser was the result of swift attacking play, underscoring the Saudi club’s evolution into a formidable side on the global stage.
The result not only boosts Al-Hilal’s chances in the Club World Cup but also reinforces the growing impact of Saudi clubs on international football.
With major signings, world-class coaching appointments, and performances like these, the Saudi Pro League’s global ambitions appear increasingly credible. As the final whistle blew, it wasn’t just a draw—it was a statement.