Neymar and Al-Hilal Suffer a Scare in the AFC Champions League
It was not supposed to be like this. The clash against Uzbekistan’s Navbahor in Riyadh was supposed to be Neymar’s introduction to the AFC Champions League. Instead, it was a fight for Al-Hilal even to earn the 1-1 result they pulled out of the fire on Monday.
Navbahor had 23% of the ball and 2 shots on target, but they were clinical when it mattered.
With the lion’s share of the ball, clocking 77%, 20 shots overall, and six shots on target, the hosts struggled to break down the Uzbekistan side at home.
Neymar and other big names, like Mitrovic, Ruben Neves, and Malcom, could not find the inspiration or the moments of magic to open up the less illustrious opponents.
The match reminds Al-Hilal that the AFC Champions League comprises tactically dynamic, adaptable, and robust teams that will give them a tough time. Complacency must be avoided if Al-Hilal and other Saudi Pro League sides are to make headway in the competition.
