Al Hilal continued their relentless pursuit of the Saudi Pro League title with a commanding 2-0 victory over Al Taawoun on Saturday. Goals from Mohammed Kanno and Brazilian star Marcos Leonardo in each half ensured the win, keeping Al Hilal within striking distance of league leaders Al Ittihad.
The match, held at Al Taawoun’s home ground, saw Al Hilal dominate from the start. Kanno opened the scoring in the 12th minute, while Leonardo sealed the victory with a second goal in the 75th minute. This win marked Al Hilal’s fifth consecutive victory and their 18th win of the season, solidifying their position as serious contenders for the league title.
With this result, Al Hilal closed the gap on Al Ittihad to just four points. Al Ittihad had earlier extended their lead with a 2-1 win over Al Riyadh, but Al Hilal’s consistent form has kept the title race alive. The defending champions are now aiming to secure their second consecutive league title and their seventh in the last nine seasons.
Al Hilal’s recent form has been impressive, both domestically and in continental competitions. The team is riding high after a 4-0 victory over Uzbekistan’s Pakhtakor in the AFC Champions League Round of 16, which secured their place in the quarter-finals. This momentum has carried over into their league performances, with Kanno and Leonardo emerging as key figures in their attacking lineup.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal’s closest rivals, Al Nassr, also secured a 3-1 win over Al Khaleej, maintaining a six-point gap behind Al Hilal. The two teams are set to face off in a highly anticipated clash on April 4, following the international break, in what could be a decisive match in the title race.
In other league action, Al Ahli suffered a late collapse against Al Akhdoud, conceding two goals in stoppage time to lose 2-1. This result prevented Al Ahli from capitalizing on Al Qadsiah’s 1-0 loss to Damak, leaving them in fifth place with 48 points.
As the Saudi Pro League enters its final stages, Al Hilal’s consistency and determination have kept them firmly in the hunt for the title. With key players in form and a crucial match against Al Nassr on the horizon, the race for the championship promises to be thrilling.
