In a standout performance at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Al Hilal of the Saudi Pro League dominated Persepolis from Iran's Persian Gulf Pro League with a convincing 4-1 victory in the AFC Champions League Elite.
The hosts took an early lead in the 10th minute when Malcom executed a flawless dribble through the defense, slotting the ball into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Alexis Guendouz. This swift attack set the tone for the rest of the match.
Just 15 minutes later, Al Hilal doubled their advantage as Joao Cancelo found the back of the net with a powerful right-foot drive after a series of quick passes. The momentum continued in the first half when Salem Al-Dawsari scored his first goal from a tight angle, assisted by Malcom.
Al Hilal didn't stop there. In stoppage time, Al-Dawsari added a second goal, capitalizing on Cancelo's precise cross to extend the lead to 4-0 before halftime. Persepolis managed to pull one back with a late penalty in the 90th minute, but the damage was already done.
With this victory, Al Hilal remains undefeated in Group B, boasting 16 points from five wins and one draw, positioning themselves strongly as the tournament progresses.
Reference(s):
Al Hilal walk over Persepolis 4-1 in AFC Champions League Elite
cgtn.com
