KSAsportz report
QARSHI — In a thrilling encounter on Monday, Al Hilal secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over PFC Nasaf in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 group stage, keeping their perfect record intact. Marcos Leonardo clinched the win with a decisive goal in the 79th minute, showcasing his skills as he capitalized on a surging run from teammate Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
This victory marks Al Hilal’s second consecutive win in the group stage, following their opening match triumph against Al Duhail. With a staggering 66% possession and 14 total shots, the Saudi giants dominated the game and demonstrated why they are considered one of the top teams in Asia.
For Nasaf, the loss adds to their frustration, having previously suffered a defeat to reigning champions Al Ahli earlier this month. Despite the setback, they put up a valiant effort, maintaining 34% of possession and making 9 defensive attempts to counter Al Hilal’s attack.
Al Hilal first broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when goalkeeper Abduvakhid Nematov misjudged a cross from Abdullah Al Hamddan, allowing Milinkovic-Savic to score into an empty net.
Nasaf quickly equalized just six minutes later, with Sardorbek Bakhromov scoring a spectacular long-range goal that hit the top corner, marking the 25-year-old’s third goal of the tournament.
Just before halftime, Al Hilal regained their lead when Theo Hernandez showcased his agility, dribbling past four defenders to deftly lift the ball over Nematov.
However, the home side responded once more; Umarbek Eshmurodov’s precise pass found Javokir Sidikov, who skillfully slotted the ball past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou in the 60th minute.
As the match appeared to be heading for a draw, Milinkovic-Savic surged through midfield, delivering a pinpoint assist to Leonardo. The Brazilian’s composed finish in the closing minutes secured all three points for head coach Simone Inzaghi’s side, bringing Al Hilal’s total to 6 points in the group stage.
This victory not only keeps Al Hilal firmly in control of their group but also adds to Nasaf’s woes against elite Saudi teams, highlighting the challenges they face in this prestigious tournament.