Source: Alamy Stock Photo

Al Hilal draw with Al Ahli and sign Benzema

A goalless draw settled the headline clash of Round 19 in the Saudi Pro League, which brought together Al Hilal and their guests Al Ahli at Kingdom Arena, further intensifying the battle at the top of the table among the leading contenders.

Al Hilal entered the match aiming to rediscover their winning form after a run of draws, but the same scenario repeated itself, as they had to settle for a single point that took their tally to 47 points at the top. However, their position has become more threatened than ever, with fierce pressure from second-placed Al Nassr, just one point behind, and Al Ahli in third, three points adrift. It is worth noting that Al Nassr defeated Al Riyadh thanks to a goal by Senegalese star Sadio Mané, in the absence of their Portuguese talisman Cristiano Ronaldo.

This third consecutive draw for Al Hilal once again highlighted the team’s need for a striker capable of converting chances into goals, a problem that became evident with the waste of several opportunities. Speculation quickly intensified over the club’s pursuit of a high-profile attacking signing, something that was officially confirmed just hours after the final whistle.

In a sensational move, Al Hilal announced the signing of French star Karim Benzema on a free transfer from reigning champions Al Ittihad.

The deal, considered one of the biggest surprises of the season, will give Al Hilal added attacking firepower as they seek to maintain their lead and secure the league title, especially given that Benzema is regarded as one of the finest forwards in the history of modern football.

Benzema has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract with Al Hilal, embarking on a new chapter in Saudi football after a successful spell with Al Ittihad, during which he led the team to a domestic double of the league and King’s Cup. Al Hilal announced the signing through their official platforms with the phrase “Karim in the stronghold of the leader,” underlining the scale of their confidence in his abilities and vast experience.

During his time with Al Ittihad, Benzema delivered impressive performances, scoring 16 goals in 21 matches this season and proving decisive in several major encounters, in addition to his key contribution to winning trophies.

In a farewell message to Al Ittihad supporters, the player expressed his gratitude for the experience and the strong backing he received, stressing that he leaves proud of what he achieved with the club.

With Benzema’s arrival, Al Hilal have sent a clear message to their rivals that they are determined to fight until the very end for the title, drawing on the experience of a world-class striker accustomed to performing at the highest level and who has achieved historic success with Real Madrid, including winning the Ballon d’Or and the UEFA Champions League five times.

Between a thrilling draw at the top and a blockbuster signing off the pitch, Al Hilal head into the next phase with renewed ambition, as the competition reaches fever pitch, promising a spectacular and highly dramatic end to the Saudi Pro League season.

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