In an intense Riyadh Derby at Al-Awwal Park on November 1, 2024, Al Nassr and reigning champions Al Hilal played out a pulsating 1-1 draw in the Saudi Pro League, ending Al Hilal’s 18-match winning streak in domestic competition.
Stefano Pioli’s Al Nassr made an explosive start, taking the lead after just 52 seconds. Otávio delivered a precise cross into the box, where Brazilian forward Talisca took one touch before firing past Yassine Bounou.
Al Hilal, managed by Jorge Jesus, gradually imposed themselves on the match through Malcom, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Aleksandar Mitrović. The equalizer arrived in the 77th minute when Renan Lodi delivered a high cross for Milinković-Savić to head home at the far post.
Cristiano Ronaldo played a vital role in Al Nassr’s front three, forcing two fine saves from Bounou and opening space for Sadio Mané and Talisca. The fixture highlighted Ronaldo’s milestone journey passing 912 career goals during the Autumn 2024 campaign.
Lineups & Derby Setup: Al Nassr (4-2-3-1): Bento; Al-Ghannam, Simakan, Laporte, Boushal; Brozović, Khaibari; Talisca, Otávio, Mané; Ronaldo. Al Hilal (4-2-3-1): Bounou; Cancelo, Koulibaly, Bulaihi, Lodi; Kanno, Neves; Malcom, Milinković-Savić, Salem Al-Dawsari; Mitrović. The midfield duel between Brozović and Rúben Neves set an intense physical tempo.