Derby Under the Microscope: Controversial Calls Spark Debate in Al-Ittihad vs Al-Hilal

Referee Under the Microscope

The Clasico between Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal, played Friday night at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, produced a string of officiating moments that stirred debate among fans and pundits after the final whistle.

Hilal prevailed 2-0 in the sixth round of the Roshan Saudi Pro League, rising to third place on 14 points and preserving an undefeated run (four wins, two draws). Al-Ittihad slipped to seventh with 10 points after a start marked by three wins, one draw, and two losses.

While the hosts showed periods of sharp pressing and attacking intent, they could not convert enough chances to alter the mood of the evening.

Calls, Confidence, Controversy

Renowned Egyptian-analyst Mohamed Kamal Risha argued that the match didn’t feature major controversial incidents, praising Argentine referee Dario Herrera for his composure, positioning, and even-handed management of fouls that helped shape the game's rhythm. He noted five yellow cards (three for Al-Ittihad, two for Al-Hilal) as deserved for reckless challenges, halting promising attacks, and misconduct, and he commended the overall control of duels and the pace of the game.

Former Egyptian international ref Essam Abdel Fattah stated that Kalidou Koulibaly’s hard challenge on an Al-Ittihad player warranted a red card. He also indicated that the decision not to award a penalty for Karim Benzema in the 13th minute was correct, arguing the contact was part of a natural duel for the ball.

Analyst Nawaf Shukrallah agreed with the no-penalty verdict, while another pundit argued Benzema’s case did not require a penalty and that the referee was right to sanction cautions in the 28th and 92nd minutes for discipline and rough play. The debate over Koulibaly’s potential red persisted among observers.

Darwin Nunez’s goal also sparked discussion: one expert argued that part of his body was in an offside position at the moment of finish, supporting the VAR disallowance; another insisted he was onside and the goal should have stood pending a closer look.

The night underscored the tactical edge and the discipline of Hilal’s approach, while Al-Ittihad, nicknamed Al-Ameed, faced questions about identity and form as they strive to rebound from a mixed start to the season.

On the touchline, Hilal’s new manager Sergio Conceicao—who replaced Laurent Blanc earlier in the season—showed calm authority and a clear plan to exploit gaps in Al-Ittihad’s structure. The home side’s bench looked for answers as they attempted to reassert control but fell short against a more cohesive visiting outfit.

In sum, the night belonged to the leaders, with Hilal’s clinical finishing contrasting with Al-Ittihad’s difficulties in imposing tempo and rhythm. The result keeps Hilal in the title conversation while Ittihad ponders how to regain momentum and rebuild on the pitch.

Punchline time: If whistles could have a highlight reel, this would be the blockbuster. And remember: in football, controversy sells tickets; in the VAR era, it sells arguments for weeks. Enjoy the sequel, because the Clasico saga is far from over.