Return of the Shot-Stopper: Bono Roars Back to Duel Mendy in Saudi Pro League

The comeback clash: Bono returns to face Mendy

Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bono is back in action for Al Hilal, set to face Al Qadsiah in Round 19 of the Saudi Pro League. The match is scheduled for Thursday in Riyadh.

Bono had missed the last nine games—eight in the league and one in the AFC Champions League—while with Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations, before returning with an injury.

On Tuesday Al Hilal announced Bono has recovered and will train with the squad normally, giving the team a major boost for the upcoming fixtures.

The return strengthens the title push, especially after the team dropped two points in the previous round with a 1-1 draw against Al Riyadh.

Beyond the support for the champions, the Bono vs Mendy duel renews the race for best goalkeeper in the league, days after the Moroccan suffered an AFCON final loss to Senegal.

Looking at the numbers, Mendy has conceded the fewest goals this season with six; Bono has allowed nine.

Similarly, Mendy has kept six clean sheets, ahead of Koen Castels with five, Marek Rodak with five, and Maílson with five as well.

Finally Bono is third in clean sheets with four, showing Mendy leads, yet the Moroccan star still has a chance to reclaim his shine. Expect an intense battle, with dramatic saves, quick reflexes, and a touch of football humor from the stands.

Fans will watch closely as both keepers chase consistency and avoid goals in this tight title race. The league season is shaping up to be highly competitive with more head-to-heads to come.

Bono s fitness update and the health status of supporting players could tip the balance.

Punchline 1: If saves counted as snipers, these two would be legendary marksmen, and the scoreboard would need a safety alarm. Punchline 2: With both keepers on form, even the ball is drafting a signed memo to the post asking for a rain check on its next shot.