Karim Benzema delivered a sensational first impression for Al Hilal, rubbing further salt into Cristiano Ronaldo’s wounds despite reports that the Portuguese star had tried to block the high-profile transfer.
The 38-year-old former Real Madrid forward made an instant impact following his deadline-day move from Al Ittihad, producing an outstanding hat trick as Al Hilal cruised to a 6-0 victory over Al Okhdood on Thursday. Coincidentally, the performance came on Ronaldo’s birthday. Alongside Benzema’s treble, Salem Al Dawsari struck twice while Malcom added another goal, with the newly formed attacking trio clicking almost immediately.
Benzema’s arrival at the Saudi Pro League leaders was far from smooth. The transfer was initially halted by the Saudi Ministry of Sports and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) before finally being approved on deadline day — a development that reportedly upset Ronaldo.
Several reports claim the Al Nassr captain was unhappy with PIF for not showing the same level of backing to his club while reinforcing their main title challengers. Ronaldo’s displeasure was said to be so strong that he declined to play for Al Nassr on Monday as a form of protest.
Although the Portuguese star has since resumed training, sources suggest he will miss Friday’s clash against Al Ittihad. Addressing the situation, the Saudi Pro League released a statement stressing that no individual player is bigger than the league or its clubs.
Meanwhile, Benzema silenced critics with a ruthless performance that highlighted exactly why Al Hilal were eager to secure his signature. The Frenchman opened his account after 31 minutes with an inventive back-heel finish, then struck twice more in the second half — calmly slotting home in the 60th minute before firing in from close range four minutes later to complete his hat trick.
The dominant win moves Al Hilal three points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League table ahead of Al Ahli, with Ronaldo’s Al Nassr a further point back, though they still have a game in hand.
Elsewhere, Ivan Toney was again on target for Al Ahli in their 2-0 victory over Al Hazem, extending his lead in the Golden Boot race. Toney now has 19 goals for the season, while Ronaldo remains on 17.
