In a dramatic encounter on April 13, 2026, Al Sadd eliminated Al Hilal from the AFC Champions League, winning a penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The match showcased an attacking pace from both sides, with Al Hilal initially taking the lead through Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who scored in the 29th minute. However, Al Sadd responded quickly, with Claudinho equalizing just eight minutes later.
Al Hilal regained the advantage in the second half when Salem Al-Dawsari found the net in the 55th minute. Yet, Al Sadd was relentless, and Rafa Mojica leveled the score again in the 58th minute. The back-and-forth continued as Marcus Leonardo put Al Hilal ahead once more in the 67th minute, only for Roberto Firmino to equalize for Al Sadd, bringing the score to 3-3.
With neither team able to secure a win in extra time, the match proceeded to penalties, where Al Sadd emerged victorious, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the prestigious tournament.
This match not only highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams but also marked a significant moment in the ongoing rivalry between Al Hilal and Al Sadd, two of the most prominent clubs in the region. The high stakes of the AFC Champions League added to the intensity of the encounter, captivating fans and observers alike.
As the dust settles on this exhilarating match, football enthusiasts are left to ponder the implications of Al Hilal’s exit and what lies ahead for both teams in the tournament. Al Sadd’s victory sets the stage for their next challenge, while Al Hilal will need to regroup and reflect on their performance in this high-pressure situation.
