Al-Okhdood 0 – 6 Al-Hilal
Karim Benzema has made a thunderous impact in his first appearance for Al-Hilal, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist in a dominant 6-0 victory over Al-Okhdood on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
The Debut Breakdown
Just three days after his shock free transfer from rivals Al-Ittihad, the 38-year-old Frenchman looked completely at home under manager Simone Inzaghi.
31st Minute: Benzema opened his account with a stylish backheel finish through the legs of defender Koray Gunter.
60th Minute: He doubled his tally with a clinical strike following a cut-back from Malcom.
64th Minute: The hat-trick was completed with a simple tap-in from a Salem Al Dawsari cross.
70th Minute: Benzema turned provider, assisting Malcom for the fourth goal.
Closing Stages: Salem Al Dawsari added two late goals (74′ and 93′) to finalize the rout.
League Impact and Controversy
This performance solidifies Al-Hilal’s position at the top of the Saudi Pro League with 50 points from 20 games. However, the move has sparked significant drama elsewhere in the league:
Ronaldo’s Reaction: Reports suggest Cristiano Ronaldo was so frustrated by the transfer—viewing it as unfair financial favoritism toward Al-Hilal—that he briefly went on “strike,” missing Al-Nassr’s recent match against Al Riyadh.
Funding: While PIF owns the major clubs, Benzema’s specific deal was reportedly funded by billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a major Al-Hilal benefactor.
Al-Ittihad Backlash:
Legends of his former club, Al-Ittihad, have publicly criticized Benzema for leaving mid-season for a direct rival, especially after the fans supported him through a period of missed penalties earlier in the year.
