In this year alone, Al-Hilal has suffered defeats in two major finals, namely the FIFA Club World Cup and the Asian Champions League. On Friday in Jeddah, they were on the brink of losing a third final.
However, with only two minutes left on the clock and Al-Wehda leading by a goal in the King's Cup final, Ali Al-Bulaihi scored, resulting in the game being extended to extra-time. Despite no further goals being scored in the additional time, the Riyadh team emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, winning 7-6.
Goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf played a crucial role in their victory, making some essential saves and eventually scoring the winning kick.
It is important to acknowledge the valiant effort of Al-Wehda, who nearly won the trophy for the first time since 1966. The Red Giants caused an upset in the semi-final against Al-Nassr and did not appear intimidated by their opponents in blue. They seized every opportunity to attack and nearly took an early lead with a powerful shot from Anselmo that struck the crossbar.