2023-09-16 11:02:41
Transferred to Al-Hilal for 90 million euros on August 15, Neymar took part in his first match in Saudi Arabia, a month later. Arriving injured in the Gulf, the former Parisian did not miss his debut in the Saudi League by delivering an assist and causing a penalty during the success of his new team (6-1) against Al-Riyadh , during a match counting for the 6th day of the championship.
Preserved at kick-off, the attacking midfielder was launched shortly after the hour mark by his coach Jorge Jesus when the score was already 2-0. Particularly expected and acclaimed by his new supporters, Neymar was quick to stand out by finding Malcom with a beautiful lofted pass on the edge of the area. If his compatriot failed to convert the offering, stumbling against the goalkeeper, Nasser Aldawsari ended up pushing the ball into the back of the net.
It was only a postponement since on a well-led counterattack by the leader of the Saudi championship, Neymar found Malcom a few moments later. The former Bordeaux player did not tremble this time to validate the first assist of the new goal record holder with the Brazilian selection.
Neymar could even have unlocked his goal counter by obtaining a penalty in the final minutes of the game, taking advantage of a handball from his opposite number in the area. But it was ultimately Salem Al-Dawsari, the captain of Al-Hilal, who took charge. An initiative little appreciated by the fans of the Saudi club, who did not hesitate to whistle their player despite his goal, wishing to see their new star take justice into his own hands.
Next meeting for Neymar and Al-Hilal: this Monday, September 18, with the opening of the group stages of the Asian Champions League and a match against the Uzbek club Navbahor Namangan.
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