Simone Inzaghi experienced his first defeat in 90 minutes since arriving in Saudi Arabia as Al-Hilal lost 2-0 to Neom in the Saudi Pro League. The result shattered an impressive run of 47 consecutive matches without a loss in regulation time across the domestic league, Asian Champions League, and domestic cup competitions.
The visiting Neom side, managed by Christophe Galtier, proved ruthless in their execution. Kalidou Koulibaly, the familiar Serie A defender now with Neom, inadvertently opened the scoring with an own goal that gave the hosts a 1-0 advantage. The former Napoli and Chelsea centre-back's misfortune compounded what was already proving to be a difficult afternoon for the visitors. Amadou Koné then sealed the victory late in the match, extending Neom's dominance and leaving Al-Hilal with no path back into the contest.
Breaking Point After Unbeaten Run
Inzaghi's 47-match unbeaten streak represented one of the most impressive defensive records in Saudi Pro League history since his appointment. The Italian tactician, who previously managed Inter Milan and Lazio, had built Al-Hilal into a fortress during the regular season. Yet despite that consistency, last term ended without silverware—Al-Nassr, boosted by Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival, claimed the league title, while the Asian Champions League crown slipped away in a penalty shootout defeat to Roberto Mancini's Al-Sadd.
This loss signals that even the best unbeaten runs must end, and it poses fresh questions for Inzaghi heading into the new campaign. Al-Hilal remain strong contenders in Saudi football, but the defeat to Neom serves as a reminder that consistency alone does not guarantee trophy success in a league that continues to strengthen with world-class talent.
