First-Time Face-Off: Salman Al-Faraj Speaks After Facing Al Hilal

Match reaction

Salman Al-Faraj, captain of Neom, spoke about facing his former club Al Hilal for the first time since leaving in the summer of 2024. He played in Neom's 2-1 defeat at King Khalid Sports City Stadium in Tabuk, closing the 16th round of the Roshen Saudi League.

Post-match notes

In remarks broadcast after the game on Eight TV, Al-Faraj congratulated Al Hilal and its supporters, saying the teams delivered a strong performance, though a quick second-half equalizer unsettled their plan. He added that Al Hilal deserved the win and that Neom would work to improve and reclaim points in coming fixtures, noting they have lost several matches this season.

He emphasized the need to return to the right track, acknowledging that today was not their day and that better performances are required in forthcoming matches to secure points.

He explained that nothing fundamental changed about the game against Al Hilal, except that he started and tried to help the team; the players showed focus and seriousness to collect three points on their home ground, and the next steps should be brighter.

He concluded that facing Hilal stirred mixed emotions; he was not happy playing against them but accepted that this is part of football. The day is over, he wished Hilal continued success and hoped for better outcomes for both teams in upcoming matches.

Punchline 1: If football were a sniper joke, Al-Faraj would keep his target on the net—precise, disciplined, and with zero collateral damage.

Punchline 2: And if points came as easily as talking, Neom would be champions by now; alas, the scoreboard has the final say.