In a scintillating inaugural appearance for Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal, Karim Benzema announced his arrival in emphatic fashion, netting a hat-trick and providing an assist as his side comprehensively outclassed Al-Akhdoud 6-0 on Thursday.
The 38-year-old joined Al-Hilal on Monday, reportedly declining a contract extension with Al-Ittihad, the club he had joined in 2023 following a distinguished 14-year tenure at Real Madrid.
Benzema wasted no time in making his mark, opening the scoring with an exquisite back-heel finish after capitalising on a loose ball shortly after the half-hour mark.
He doubled the lead in the 60th minute with a precise, close-range strike and completed his hat-trick four minutes later with another composed finish. He also orchestrated Al-Hilal’s fourth goal, assisting Malcom, before being substituted in the 71st minute.
“It was an important game today. We are delighted we played well, kept a clean sheet, and scored goals,” Benzema remarked. “Everyone has been incredibly supportive; they give me everything, and I give everything back when I am on the pitch.”
Salem Al-Dawsari, the 2025 AFC Player of the Year, concluded the rout with a brace, capping a perfect debut for Benzema and signalling a remarkable start to his tenure with Al-Hilal.
