Riyadh’s title race found another flashpoint as Gabriel Martinelli marked his early days at Al-Hilal with the opening goal in a 3-2 derby victory over Al-Ittihad, a result that kept his new club at the summit of the Saudi league.
Al-Hilal had announced the Brazilian winger’s arrival before he made an immediate impression in one of the division’s biggest fixtures. Martinelli struck in the 11th minute, collecting Ollie Watkins’ pass inside the penalty area and beating goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic.
Youssef En-Nesyri brought Al-Ittihad level, but Al-Hilal restored their advantage before half-time through Watkins. The hosts extended the margin after the break when Crysencio Summerville scored their third.
Steven Bergwijn converted a penalty to reduce the deficit for Al-Ittihad, setting up a tense finish in Riyadh, yet Martinelli’s side held on for the win.
A fast start in Riyadh
Martinelli said the move had begun in encouraging fashion after the club’s staff and supporters made him feel welcome. He described scoring in a derby, played in front of two major fanbases and carrying implications for first place, as especially meaningful.
The Brazilian added that Al-Hilal must continue working towards their targets for the end of the season.
League and Asian commitments ahead
Al-Hilal will return to Saudi league action away to Al-Riyadh on Friday the 16th. The league leaders also have an Asian Champions League meeting with Qatar’s Al-Sadd on their upcoming schedule.
