Blue Pride, Yellow Frustration: Explosive Aftermath of the Saudi Clasico
25 October 2025
Match overview
The Al Hilal vs Al Ittihad clash at Enmaa Stadium in Jeddah ended 2-0 in favor of Al Hilal, reinforcing their position at the top of the Saudi Pro League’s early battles.
The opener came through a costly own goal by defender Mohamed Doumbia in the 40th minute after a cross from Ruben Neves, with Brazilian Marcos Leonardo sealing the win in the 57th minute to silence the home crowd.
Key moments
Hilal dominated the encounter, maintaining pressure and controlling the tempo after the early setback. The hosts’ defense capitulated on the first goal, and Hilal never looked back, effectively shutting down the opposition’s attacks.
Nasser Al-Dosari, the Hilal captain for the night, praised the collective spirit, insisting the armband belongs to the entire squad rather than to one individual.
Reactions
Theo Hernandez lauded the team’s performance and its tactical discipline, noting that they pressed as a unit and dictated the match’s rhythm, even if the final score felt short of some chances.
Karim Benzema, reflecting on the loss, urged more fight from his side, reminding everyone that football is a game of moments and that the comeback starts with belief and effort.
Fabinho attributed the setback to the second goal’s killer blow, saying momentum shifted decisively after that goal and that finishing efficiency needs improvement in the next outing.
Mario Maita apologized to the fans for the costly concentration lapses that allowed the goals, stressing that the team must reset quickly as the season wears on.
Coach Simone Inzaghi commented on building confidence within the squad and maintaining trust in the process, even amid tough results, while acknowledging the emotional weight of such derbies.
Quotes aside, the match also reinforced the broader narrative: Hilal’s balance, organization, and depth gave them the edge over a traditionally strong Al Ittihad squad this season.
Historical context pointed to Hilal’s psychological and technical dominance in recent Clasicos, with the numbers underscoring their control in head-to-head meetings and their ability to convert chances when it mattered most.
Two punchlines for the road: if football were a mood ring, blue would be its favorite color; and if the league table were a dinner, tonight’s dish would be blue cheese with extra swagger. Enjoy the ride, folks—this derby isn’t done yet, and neither is the laughter behind the scenes.
