In a match that had everything—drama, comebacks, and even a superstar cameo—Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal edged UAE’s Al-Ain 5-4 in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday. Salem Al-Dawsari’s stunning hat-trick stole the spotlight from Neymar’s long-awaited return, proving football’s magic lies in the unexpected 🌟.
Al-Hilal’s victory avenged last season’s semi-final heartbreak against Al-Ain, even after playing the final minutes with 10 men. Neymar, back after eight months recovering from injury, entered as a 77th-minute sub but couldn’t turn the tide. Fans were left buzzing: Was this the ultimate underdog-over-superstar story? 🤯
The game was a rollercoaster 🎢:
⚽ Al-Dawsari and Al-Ain’s Soufiane Rahimi BOTH scored hat-tricks—a first in AFC history!
🟥 Al-Hilal’s Ali Al-Bulahyi saw red late, adding tension to the nail-biting finish.
🔥 Al-Hilal now tops West Asia’s standings with 9 points, while Al-Ain remains winless.
\"It’s a big win—even with 10 men, we showed our spirit,\" said Al-Hilal striker Aleksandar Mitrovic. With rivals like Al-Ahli also climbing, Saudi teams are dominating this year’s tournament. Will they take home the trophy? 🏆
