Al-Hilal manager Stefano Inzaghi held an urgent meeting with his star players on Sunday evening, following the team’s unexpected 4-1 defeat to Al-Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League.
The meeting took place at the club’s training base and included key figures such as captain Salman Al-Faraj, Salem Al-Dawsari, Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Aleksandar Mitrović. The discussion focused on a thorough analysis of the defensive and offensive mistakes that led to the heavy loss in Buraydah.
Inzaghi emphasized to the group that the result was a significant setback, but stressed the importance of unity and a swift response. He called on the experienced leaders within the squad to take responsibility and guide the team through this period, especially with crucial matches on the horizon.
The Italian coach made it clear that there is no room for such a performance repeat, pointing to the upcoming AFC Champions League semi-final second leg against Al-Ain. Al-Hilal trail 4-2 from the first leg and face a monumental task to overturn the deficit on Tuesday.
It was revealed during the talks that Inzaghi and the players agreed to close ranks, putting the disappointing result behind them immediately. The sole focus is now on the continental challenge, with the team determined to fight for their chances of advancing to the final.
The club’s management has publicly reiterated its full confidence in Inzaghi and the squad to overcome this stumble. The immediate objective is a historic comeback against Al-Ain to keep their hopes of a quadruple trophy haul alive this season.
