Dawsari’s hat-trick helps Al-Hilal edge past Al-Ain 5-4 in dramatic Asian Champions League clash
DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal secured a thrilling 5-4 victory over defending champions Al-Ain in the Asian Champions League Elite on Monday, with Salem Al-Dawsari’s hat-trick stealing the spotlight in an eventful match. The clash also marked Neymar’s return to competitive action, coming on as a substitute in the 77th minute after recovering from a cruciate ligament rupture last October.
Al-Hilal, despite being reduced to 10 men in the closing stages, exacted revenge for last season’s semi-final defeat by Al-Ain. The win keeps them on top of the West Asian league standings with nine points after three rounds, sharing the lead with fellow Saudi side Al-Ahli.
Al-Ahli also triumphed, defeating Qatar’s Al-Rayyan 2-1. Gabri Veiga opened the scoring directly from a corner in the 16th minute, followed by Feras Al-Brikan’s header just before halftime. Despite a late own goal from Fahad Al-Hamad, Al-Ahli held on for the victory.
