Short-handed, Strong: Al Hilal Clinches Top Spot as Cancelo Story Unfolds

Al Hilal edged past Al Hazm to stay on top in the 14th round of the Roshen Saudi Pro League 2025-2026.

Match reaction

Massimiliano Faris, the assistant coach of Al Hilal, expressed happiness with the win over Al Hazm on Thursday night in the 14th round of the Roshen Saudi Pro League 2025-2026.

He opened his remarks at the post-match press conference by wishing a speedy recovery to his compatriot Simone Inzaghi, who was unable to attend due to a throat issue.

Faris said: "We managed today to reach the league lead, we also sit top in the Champions League, and we are competing for the King's Cup, and I hope these results continue."

He added: "We are short in certain areas due to the absence of Koulibaly, Bono, and Muteb Al-Harbi who suffered a muscle injury before the match, but today we delivered a solid performance, scoring three goals and extending our lead to four points at the summit."

He continued: "We focus on our young players; they need more experience and will gain it with the minutes they play in the future."

Cancelo and the transfer window

Faris also talked about Joao Cancelo: "The Portuguese player joined Al Hilal at the start of the season, but an injury forced his substitution. With one foreign slot still available, he was the substitute, and we are in direct contact with the club's management to strengthen the squad with a new foreign player during the current transfer window."

Punchline 1: If coaching were a sniper rifle, Faris aimed true—the shot was a win and the crowd went home happy.

Punchline 2: Cancelo's injury? Don’t worry—the only thing canceled today is the opponent's celebrations.