Key moments

In a dramatic encounter on March 19, 2026, Al-Hilal faced Al-Ahli in the semi-finals of the King’s Cup, held at Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah. The match concluded with Al-Hilal emerging victorious after a tense penalty shootout, winning 4-2 following a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time.

The match started with Al-Hilal taking the lead in the 39th minute, thanks to a well-placed goal from Theo Hernandez. This early advantage set the tone for a competitive match, but Al-Ahli fought back, equalizing in the 81st minute through a penalty converted by Ivan Toney.

Following the equalizer, the match proceeded to extra time, where neither team could find the back of the net, leading to a penalty shootout to determine who would advance to the final. In the shootout, Al-Hilal’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved to be the hero, saving penalties from both Ivan Toney and Galeno, which ultimately secured Al-Hilal’s place in the final.

Al-Hilal’s victory was particularly significant as it marked the third draw between the two teams this season, highlighting the intensity of their rivalry in the King’s Cup. The previous encounters included a 2-2 draw and a 5-4 victory for Al-Hilal, showcasing the competitive nature of their matchups.

With this win, Al-Hilal will now face Al-Kholood in the King’s Cup final, who reached this stage by defeating Al-Ittihad on penalties in the other semi-final. The anticipation for the final is building, as both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the tournament.

The match featured a total of 12 penalties taken between both teams, illustrating the high stakes and pressure involved in such knockout competitions. Al-Hilal’s ability to convert four penalties while Al-Ahli managed only two was a decisive factor in the outcome.

As the dust settles on this thrilling semi-final, reactions from fans and analysts alike are pouring in, praising the performances of both teams. Yassine Bounou’s standout performance in goal has been particularly highlighted, as he played a crucial role in his team’s advancement to the final.

Al-Hilal’s storied rivalry with Al-Ahli continues to captivate fans, and this latest chapter adds to the rich history of encounters between the two clubs in the King’s Cup. As they prepare for the final, both teams will be looking to build on their performances and secure the coveted trophy.