Cancelo Ruled Out as Al-Hilal Prepare for Semi-Final Clash with Al-Ahli

JEDDAH: Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus has confirmed that Joao Cancelo will miss the remainder of the Asian Champions League Elite campaign due to a hamstring injury. The Portuguese full-back, who previously played for Manchester City and Barcelona, was forced off 42 minutes into Al-Hilal’s commanding 7-0 win over South Korea’s Gwangju on Friday.

“The only negative part of an excellent night was the injury to Joao Cancelo,” Jesus said. “He will be out for four to six weeks, meaning his season is practically over, but he will be well prepared for our participation in the Club World Cup.”

Al-Hilal, chasing a record-extending fifth continental title, face a tough challenge against Al-Ahli in the all-Saudi Pro League semi-final on Tuesday in Jeddah. Al-Ahli remain the only undefeated team in the competition and recently defeated Al-Hilal in the league, powered by an Ivan Toney hat-trick.

Al-Ahli coach Matthias Jaissle, celebrating his first win over Al-Hilal after four failed attempts, believes his side can repeat their success. “It helps definitely to know, to feel that we are capable to win against Al-Hilal,” said the German.