**Koulibaly Faces Linguistic Challenge on World Language Day**
In a lighthearted celebration of World Language Day, renowned football club Al Nassr engaged its players in the seventh episode of the Hilal Challenge, a playful linguistic competition held annually on December 18 since 2012.
The challenge involves participants attempting to articulate as many words or expressions as possible in Arabic, adding a touch of camaraderie and cultural appreciation to the sporting arena.
A video shared by the club on its social media platforms showcased the diverse participation of players, transcending linguistic boundaries.
Among the participants were the Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, midfielder Ruben Neves, Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, and the attacking trio of Brazilians Neymar, Malcom, and Michael.
In this linguistic showdown, players attempted to navigate the intricacies of Arabic pronunciation, contributing to a spirited atmosphere that resonated with fans.
Notably, the captain of the Senegal national team, Kalidou Koulibaly, demonstrated his linguistic prowess in a commendable effort.
However, the coveted victory in the Hilal Challenge was secured by Michael, who displayed an impressive command of Arabic vocabulary, successfully pronouncing 24 terms.
Michael’s linguistic triumph added a delightful twist to the competition, showcasing a different aspect of the players’ skills beyond their prowess on the field.
While Neymar and Malcom found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard in terms of correct pronunciations, the light-hearted event allowed fans to witness a more playful side of their favorite football stars.
In the absence of a prolific showing in front of the goal during the challenge, Michael’s linguistic finesse stood out, earning him the title of the Hilal Challenge champion for this edition.
The World Language Day celebration provided a delightful interlude for football enthusiasts, emphasizing the global and inclusive nature of the sport as players engaged in good-natured banter, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for linguistic diversity.
🎬 #اليوم_العالمي_للغة_العربية.. عنوان الحلقة السابعة من #تحدي_الهلال.. من تتوقّعون فاز؟ 🧐💙#الهلال pic.twitter.com/FuDenFvbf5
— نادي الهلال السعودي (@Alhilal_FC) December 17, 2023
