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Referee Expert Breaks Down Al Hilal’s Six-Substitution Debate: Rule Break or Not?

4 January 2026

Referee Expert Breaks Down Al Hilal’s Six-Substitution Debate: Rule Break or Not?
Al Hilal’s six substitutions sparked debate during the Saudi Pro League clash with Damac.

Six Substitutions Under Scrutiny

Saudi Pro League referee expert Mohammed Kamal Risha clarified that Al Hilal did not breach the rules in making six substitutions during the match against Damac.

Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, who manages Hilal, made six changes in the 2-0 victory on Sunday at Prince Abdullah Bin Sultan Stadium in the 13th round of the Saudi Pro League.

Risha told the Saudi daily Al-Riyadia that Hilal exercised its legal right to substitute after Jamal Harakas suffered a head concussion and was forced off.

Regarding Damac not using six substitutions, the former Egyptian referee commented that Damac's five-substitution limit does not negate Hilal's right to make the sixth.

Hilal now leads the Saudi Pro League table for the first time this season, on 32 points, one ahead of Al Nasr who slipped to second.

Punchlines: If six subs were a crime, the bench would be behind bars; and the whistle blows more twists than a pretzel factory.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Al Hilal violate any rules by making six substitutions?

No, according to referee expert Mohammed Kamal Risha, the six substitutions were within legal rights after an injury.

What happened with Jamal Harakas?

He suffered a head concussion and was substituted, triggering the six-substitution protocol.

What was the match result and standings after the game?

Hilal won 2-0 and moved to the top of the Saudi Pro League with 32 points, one point ahead of Al Nasr.