Simone Inzaghi faced his first setback as Al-Hilal manager after a stunning 2-0 loss to Neom in the sixth round of the Roshn Saudi Pro League on Monday. The defeat left the defending champions frozen on 15 points at the table's summit, while the newly promoted side climbed to 12 points with a memorable upset.
The Italian tactician cut a visibly deflated figure during his post-match briefing, acknowledging his side's wastefulness in front of goal. "We created five chances in the first half and did not convert them," Inzaghi explained, highlighting missed opportunities that proved costly. "Neom's goalkeeper also produced a fine save against Kanno's attempt in the second period."
Taking Responsibility for Defensive Lapses
Inzaghi took full accountability for the heavy defeat, revealing the emotional toll it had taken. "Such defeats bring the players back to their senses, and I am the one responsible for this painful result, which will keep me from sleeping," he stated. The manager emphasized that both goals stemmed from defensive errors rather than superior Neom play: the first came from a mistake in Al-Hilal's own box, while the second exposed coverage issues in their backline.
Despite the setback, the Al-Hilal boss remained measured in his assessment. He credited the club's management for their work and refrained from blaming his players, instead owning the tactical shortcomings. "We are still at the top of the table, and all we have to do now is learn from this defeat," Inzaghi said. This marks only the first blemish on an otherwise unbeaten record since his arrival in the Saudi Pro League, where consistency at the summit remains non-negotiable for title contenders.
Al-Hilal will look to bounce back decisively and reassert dominance, knowing that Neom's shock result has tightened the title race considerably with Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah now within striking distance at 12 points each.
