Hilal Belongs in the Champions League: Al-Akhodod’s Boss Delivers a Bold Take After a 6-0 Rout
5 February 2026
Hilal's European Destiny Reiterated After Najran Rout
Romanian coach Marius Sumudica, manager of Al-Akhodod, showered praise on Al-Hilal after their 6-0 win in Najran, insisting Hilal deserves a Champions League berth alongside European giants such as Real Madrid.
Sumudica told reporters that Hilal’s quality and stature would place them among the world’s best five teams. He thanked everyone involved in developing Hilal and presenting them in such a striking form.
Regarding the game, he described two halves: a bright first period from his side, followed by a second-half collapse, underscored by the absence of four key players and Hilal's star-filled roster.
He added that the collapse was mental rather than tactical, driven by fatigue and a congested schedule leaving little time for recovery, while praising the depth and strength of Hilal’s squad.
Sumudica also praised Saudi players Ma'ad Faqihi and Khaled Al-Lzam who joined his squad after his push to give Saudis a chance, noting the stark financial gap between the clubs—Al-Hilal reportedly investing far more.
Punchlines aside, he reiterated admiration for Hilal’s potential and the reality of the gulf between resources and results in this matchup.
Sniper humor: If compliments counted as goals, Sumudica just scored a hat-trick for Hilal; Sniper line two: with praise this sharp, the ball might need sunglasses to handle the glare.
