Mitrovic Made a Scoring Return as Al Hilal Dominated Al Taawoun
It was normal service at the King Abdullah Sports Stadium last Friday as Al Hilal overcame Al Taawoun to extend their winning run and their inevitable march to the title this season.
The sight of Aleksandar Mitrovic opening the scoring in the 40th minute and giving the Saudi Pro League leaders a deserved lead was welcome for Jorge Jesus and the Hilal fans.
The Serbian striker has been missed by Al Hilal in recent matches, especially in their AFC Champions League second-leg clash against United Arab Emirates Al Ain last month, when they were knocked out of the continental tournament at the semi-final stage.
It was not smooth sailing for Al Hilal on Friday, as it took them a while to get going. Ruben Neves showed some intent with a flashed shot, which went inches over the quarter-hour mark after some exciting build-up and link-up play with Malcom and Mitrovic.
Mitrovic underscored his importance to Al Hilal after the Serbian returned from a hamstring injury that had sidelined him for the last three weeks. With the leaders having difficulties breaking Al Taawoun down, Mitrovic finished with a trademark header after Michael lifted the ball to the back post. This was the Serbian’s 23rd goal in 23 appearances in the Saudi Pro League.
This goal showed why the striker has been unplayable this season and how important it is to Al Hilal in their relentless pursuit of the title.
Jorge Jesus will hope that his number 9 will remain fit for the remaining five matches in the Saudi Pro League, including the blockbuster clash against Al Ahli on Monday as they look to wrap up the title.
