Inzaghi's Call: Benzema and Three Hilal Stars Questioned Ahead of Al Najmah Showdown
5 March 2026
Match Preview
Inzaghi, the Italian coach of Al Hilal, faces a tricky call as the fate of three Hilal players and Karim Benzema's fitness loom over Friday's clash with Al Najmah in the Saudi Pro League's Round 25.
Benzema has been out with an adductor muscle injury in recent days and missed the last two games against Al Taawoun and Al Shabab. The team will decide on his participation after today’s training.
Inzaghi told reporters that a long injury list complicates lineup choices, and that it will be difficult for the trio Tembakti, Neves, and Nasser Al-Dossari to feature against Al Najmah.
He added: “Benzema's status is uncertain; we will determine after the training session, and we hope to have all players available, including a speedy recovery for Hamad Al-Yami.”
He also noted: “We were short at right-back, and I had aimed to sign a solid option in the winter window, but we couldn’t. Hamad Al-Yami’s injury worsened the situation, so I’m testing several options at right-back such as Sultan Mandesh and Abdulkarim Darshi, without settling on a final replacement.”
On defensive issues, Inzaghi acknowledged that the goal tally had been a bit high in recent matches, but stressed that addressing all mistakes is key and that the team must respect Al Najmah, who are strong on both offense and defense.
Salient details for the match: Saudi Pro League, Round 25, Friday, 6 March 2026, at 20:00 local time.
– Final note from the coach: the squad’s health will dictate the tactical approach, and depth could decide the outcome against a well-organized opponent.
Punchline time: If this lineup were a movie, the title would be “The Injury Committee,” featuring a cameo by Benzema as the plot twist. And if you think it’s confusing, remember: even football sagas come with a medical intermission.
