Cancelo Returns to Boost Al Hilal Ahead of Gharafa Clash
2 November 2025
Cancelo's Return Lights Up Hilal's Camp
Al Hilal regained a key weapon as Portuguese international Joao Cancelo rejoined the squad after weeks on the sidelines, strengthening the team ahead of the Gharafa clash in the AFC Champions League Elite.
Hilal enter the match as group leaders with nine points from three games, while Al Gharafa sit with three points in a lower position.
Long Absence and Impact
Cancelo's spell on the sidelines had left the side short on right‑flank options, impacting defensive balance and width in attack. His return provides the coaching staff with a familiar, versatile asset capable of contributing in both defense and build‑up play.
The renewal of Cancelo’s involvement is highlighted as a major upgrade for a team looking to consolidate their edge in a demanding continental campaign.
Injury Updates and Squad Depth
Al Hilal issued updates showing Savic and Darwin Nunez continuing rehabilitation; both were not part of the trip to Qatar. Defender Ali Albulayhi and Hussein Tambakti were also ruled out due to flu, adding to defensive challenges before a pivotal fixture.
With these absences, Cancelo's return could be pivotal in stabilizing the back line and offering fresh options as the squad navigates a tight schedule.
Group Standings and Historical Edge
Hilal enters the match atop the Western region with nine points from three games, ahead of a cluster including Al Ahli Jeddah, Al Ahli, Shabab Al Ahli and Al Wehda on seven apiece; Tractor (5), Sharjah (4), Al Sadd (2), Al Duhail and Al Shorta (1), while Nasaf Qarshi sits with zero.
The Blue Wave are noted as the only club with a perfect record in the current edition across both East and West, underscoring their title credentials. They have won three consecutive games: Duhail 2-1 in Riyadh, Nasaf Qarshi 3-2 in Qarshi, and Al Sadd 3-1 in Riyadh.
Historical Edge
Al Hilal holds a clear historical advantage over Qatari clubs, having met them 43 times with 25 wins, 10 draws, and 8 losses. Al Gharafa stands as the fourth most common opponent for Hilal, with five wins, one draw, and one defeat across seven encounters, including a 4-2 extra‑time victory in 2010 that stretched beyond normal time.
The last head‑to‑head came in last season’s edition, a 3-0 win for Hilal in Riyadh powered by Marcus Leonardo, Sergej Savic and Aleksandar Mitrović.
Punchlines: If Cancelo’s crosses are as sharp as his travel schedule, defenses won’t know what crossed them. And remember, a good cross is just a well‑aimed joke—the goalkeeper may not laugh, but the crowd surely will. Two sniper‑level lines to close: 1) He’s back, so the goalposts might want to apply for overtime. 2) Defenders beware—one volley from Cancelo and even your VAR will waver with envy.
