Al Hilal are the 2025-26 Saudi King’s Cup champions after a dramatic 2-1 victory against Al Kholood in the final on May 8, 2026, at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
The match had everything a cup final needs: an early shock, a swift fightback, moments of real quality, and a triumphant ending under the lights.
Match Recap: From Nervous Start to Blue Dominance
The underdogs struck first. Just four minutes in, Ramiro Enrique pounced and gave Al Kholood a shock 1-0 lead. For a brief moment, the massive crowd fell silent as the fairytale looked possible for the lower-league side.
But Al Hilal, as they so often do, responded with character. In the 42nd minute, Nasser Al-Dawsari (also referred to as Salem Al-Dawsari in some reports) leveled the score with a well-taken goal, sending the blue half of the stadium into wild celebrations.
Then, right on the stroke of half-time, the decisive moment arrived. In the 45+2 minute, Theo Hernández slammed home the winner, with Karim Benzema providing the assist. The veteran Frenchman’s vision and composure set up the perfect chance for the former Real Madrid and AC Milan star to fire Al Hilal into a 2-1 lead at the break.
The second half belonged to Simone Inzaghi’s side. Al Hilal controlled possession, defended solidly, and limited Al Kholood’s threat. No further goals were scored, and when the final whistle blew, the party could begin.
A Historic Night for Al Hilal and Benzema
This victory marks Al Hilal’s 10th King’s Cup title in their history, underlining their status as one of Saudi Arabia’s most successful clubs. It is also the first trophy for coach Simone Inzaghi since arriving from Inter Milan, with his 3-5-2 system looking sharp and effective on the big stage.
For Karim Benzema, the night was extra special. At 38 years old, the Ballon d’Or winner continues to deliver at the highest level. Although he didn’t score in the final, his crucial assist for the winning goal showed he still possesses top-class football intelligence. This win means Benzema has now lifted the Saudi King’s Cup with two different clubs — previously with Al-Ittihad and now with Al Hilal — adding yet another chapter to his remarkable career in Saudi Arabia.
The scenes at the end were unforgettable: players sliding across the pitch in joy, confetti raining down, and the Al Hilal faithful singing their hearts out. The massive tifo display before kick-off set the tone for what was a passionate, high-stakes occasion.
What This Means Moving Forward
This cup success gives Al Hilal momentum as they continue their domestic campaign. For Benzema and his teammates, it’s another piece of silverware in what has been an eventful season full of big-name arrivals and high expectations.
What a night of football in Saudi Arabia! A classic cup final where quality and experience eventually overcame a spirited underdog challenge.
Did you manage to catch the game? What did you think of Benzema’s performance at 38? And how do you see Al Hilal performing for the rest of the season?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below — let’s discuss!
SOURCE: ESPN
