Nunez Under Fire: The First-Half Blues in Al Hilal's Saudi Showdown

Match-day tensions and a muted first half

Tunisia’s Tariq Diab, a former Al Ahli Jeddah star, launched a blistering take at Darwin Nunez, the Al Hilal forward, after a muted first half against the rival.

Al Hilal hosts Al Ahli this evening, Monday, as Round 20 of the Saudi Pro League continues.

Diab told the Thamaniya platform that Al Ahli were the better and more dangerous side in the first half, and reached the front third brilliantly.

Diab added that Al Ahli controlled the midfield, while Robin Neves failed to deliver, with Franck Kessié and Enzo Millot sharpening the depth.

He also said Mohamed Kano and Savic did not show, leaving Hilal's front third completely absent.

Diab concluded that Nunez lacked confidence and did not meet expectations; watching him, it seemed he was playing for Al Ahli.

Opta stats back the claim: Nunez had the fewest touches in the first half, tied with Ivan Toni of Al Ahli, at nine touches each.

Punchlines: If his touch count keeps dropping, someone should hand him a map. And if confidence is a currency, Nunez forgot his wallet in the locker room.