Saïd Benrahma registered an assist against Al Hilal but ended the match on the losing side as NEOM suffered a 2-1 home defeat despite taking the lead.
Four days after finding the net in his previous outing, the Algerian winger again played a decisive role in the final third.
NEOM struck first shortly before half-time through former Al Hilal defender Mohamed Al Burayk, with Benrahma central to the move that broke the deadlock.
The opening goal arrived in the 42nd minute following a swift exchange on the right flank. Benrahma combined neatly with Bouabré in a one-two before receiving the return pass.
He then delivered a precise cross into the area, allowing Al Burayk to rise and head past his former club. The goal rewarded NEOM’s disciplined first-half display and gave them a deserved advantage against one of the league’s strongest sides.
Benrahma continued to threaten after the interval. Moments after the restart, he launched a powerful solo counter-attack, carrying the ball nearly 70 metres and pushing Al Hilal’s defence back at speed.
He came close to doubling NEOM’s lead, only for Theo Fernandez to recover in time and deny him at the decisive moment.
That missed opportunity proved costly. Al Hilal responded quickly and restored parity in the 49th minute when Al Tambati found the net, shifting the momentum of the match.
The visitors increased the pressure, forcing NEOM to defend deeper as the second half progressed.
The turning point arrived in the 66th minute. Al Hilal earned a penalty and Ruben Neves stepped up to convert, sending the ball beyond the goalkeeper and completing the comeback.
From that point, NEOM struggled to regain control as Al Hilal managed the closing stages with experience.
Despite the defeat, Benrahma’s performance stood out. His assist highlighted his growing influence since joining the club, while his driving run early in the second half underlined his confidence and attacking intent. However, his contribution could not prevent NEOM from falling short.
The result leaves NEOM reflecting on missed chances and a strong start that went unrewarded, while Al Hilal once again demonstrated their ability to overturn deficits and secure vital points away from home.
Benrahma était tout proche de faire le break 🤯
Quel retour défensif de Théo Hernandez 👏 https://t.co/drklKxsHh5 pic.twitter.com/iBqLBYQHjc
— SPL 🇸🇦 (@ActuSPL) January 18, 2026
