Al Hilal’s Edge: A Tactical Masterclass That Sets the Standard

Context and Key Players

Ahmed Atief, the former Shabab star, praised Marcus Leonardo's form with Al Hilal, saying he is the best forward in the squad and that Darwin Nunez has been hampered by injuries.

Speaking on television, Atief argued that Leonardo deserves a starting spot because he always delivers when given a chance, and he noted that Nunez would be the preferred option if Hilal sought to free up a foreign slot for Jao Cancelo.

King Cup Quarterfinals and Tactical Edge

He also commented on Hilal's 4-1 win over Al Fateh in the King Cup quarterfinals, asserting that the leader is technically ahead of rivals Al Ittihad and Al Ahli at this stage.

According to Atief, the improvement versus Al Fateh came from the coach's setup: a high-pressing approach that addressed defensive issues and neutralized threats from players like Murad Batna.

He added that the team’s defense and attack showed a second, completely different level, with Hilal now appearing capable of competing for all trophies.

Beyond the Cup and Future Prospects

On the youth setback, he stated that coach Emmanuel Algwasil is not solely responsible for the current situation and that the squad lacks standout players, with leadership shouldering the blame.

Hamad Al-Muntashri, a former Al Ittihad star, celebrated the team’s qualification while lamenting Shabab’s decline, saying the match against the Lions was the easiest for the Union this season. He also opined that Al Ittihad could have scored more and wished for Shabab’s return to form.

He praised Benzema after he scored three goals against Shabab, calling him a rare asset in Al Ittihad's attack and noting improved fitness that should help him during the break.

The King Cup semi-final draw was made, with Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Al Khlood advancing at the expense of Shabab, Al Fateh, Qadisiya and Gulf.

Punchline time: if Hilal’s tactics were a weapon, it would be a silent sniper—calm, precise, and always landing the shot. And if football were a stand‑up routine, a quick reminder: even the best pass occasionally files a complaint with the defense for harassment by precision.