Neymar made his return after more than a year away from the field due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament. He came on as a substitute in the second half of Al-Hilal SFC‘s AFC Champions League match against Al Ain.
Key Moments in the Match
The Brazilian star replaced Nasser Al Dawsari in the 77th minute, just after Salem Al Dawsari scored to give Al Hilal a 5-3 lead. He almost made an instant impact, passing with Aleksandar Mitrovic to create space, but his shot went just wide of the left post.
In the end, Al-Hilal SFC won 5-4, despite Al Ain scoring a last-minute penalty.
After the match, Neymar expressed his joy, saying,
“I feel good… I always have a good team. I’m so happy. I’m back! I’m back!”
Neymar, who joined Al-Hilal SFC from Paris Saint-Germain for €90 million in August 2023, injured his knee shortly after joining while playing for Brazil against Uruguay. He underwent surgery last November.
His former club, Santos, congratulated him on his return, saying,
“It was more than 12 months away from the field, with an immeasurable longing to return to doing what he loves so much.”
In the Saudi Pro League, teams have limits on the number of foreign players. Eight foreign players born before 2003 can be registered, and two foreign players born in 2003 or after are allowed. Neymar‘s contract with Al-Hilal SFC runs until June 2025.
Al-Hilal SFC, coached by Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus, is currently at the top of the domestic standings with seven wins in seven games.
Meanwhile, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is hoping to have Neymar ready for the November World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay. Brazil is currently fourth in their qualifying group, four points behind leaders Argentina after 10 matches.
