Al Hilal exited the FIFA Club World Cup after a 2-1 loss to Fluminense in the quarterfinals on Friday, but their strong performance showcased the Saudi Pro League’s growing prowess.
The Saudi team, led by new coach Simone Inzaghi, stunned with a 4-3 victory over Manchester City in the round-of-16, marking the tournament’s biggest upset. Al Hilal advanced unbeaten through the group stage, drawing with Real Madrid and Salzburg, and defeating Pachuca 2-0.
Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly, a key Al Hilal defender, emphasized that the team’s success proves the Saudi league is more than a lucrative destination for aging stars. “We showed that the teams from Saudi are very strong, very powerful,” he told reporters, highlighting the league’s talent and growth.
Inzaghi, who joined from Inter Milan just before the tournament, praised his squad’s quality and work ethic. He expressed optimism for the upcoming season, noting the team’s potential revealed during their Club World Cup campaign in Orlando.
Koulibaly, an early recruit to Al Hilal from Chelsea, underscored the league’s rapid improvement over two years, driven by local and international talent. He said the Saudi Pro League is carving a significant place in global football.
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