Al-Hilal have seized control of the Saudi Roshn League title race after Al-Nassr suffered a 2-1 defeat to Al-Ittihad in the fifth round, leaving the defending contenders three points adrift at the summit. The loss handed the initiative to the league leaders, who have maintained a perfect record through five matches to establish themselves as clear championship favorites.
Former Al-Nassr midfielder Fahad Al-Hurayfi reaffirmed his conviction that Al-Hilal will claim the title this season, dismissing suggestions that his prediction might waver following his former club's stumble. Speaking on Saudi television program "Dorina Ghair," Al-Hurayfi emphasized he made the same assessment before the campaign kicked off and sees no reason to reverse course. "I said it at the end of last season, and at the start of this season I settled it," the former midfielder stated, underscoring that early-season results do not alter his strategic view of the race.
Al-Hilal's Dominant Form
The numbers justify Al-Hurayfi's confidence in the league favorites. Al-Hilal have won all five matches, accumulating 15 points and opening a three-point gap over second-placed Al-Nassr. Their attacking prowess has been particularly lethal: they demolished Al-Ahli 3-0, crushed Al-Khaleej 5-1, and edged past Al-Shabab 2-0 to preserve their unbeaten record. This relentless pace mirrors the intensity that defined their charge back into contention late last season.
Al-Hurayfi attributed his championship prediction to observing how Al-Nassr's form deteriorated in the latter stages of the previous campaign, gifting Al-Hilal the platform to stage a comeback. That pattern appears to be repeating itself. Al-Nassr's four consecutive victories looked promising before the Clasico reversal halted their momentum, while Al-Hilal have shown no mercy to any opponent. Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, remain unbeaten with 11 points in fourth place after their impressive victory over Al-Nassr.
With only five rounds complete, the Roshn League still has considerable distance to travel, yet Al-Hilal's commanding position and devastating goal-scoring efficiency suggest they have the firepower and consistency to maintain their lead. How Al-Nassr respond to this setback will determine whether they can mount a serious challenge or watch Al-Hilal run away with the trophy.
