Moloudia beat Al Hilal in fiery Austria friendly disrupted by flares

Moloudia d’Alger continued their pre-season preparations with a 2-0 friendly win over Al Hilal in Austria, in a match briefly halted after flares were set off by the Algerian club’s supporters.

The game, part of both sides’ training camps ahead of the new season, also marked a first appearance for Al Hilal’s new signing Crysencio Summerville following his move from West Ham United.

The Algerian side went in front on 30 minutes when Sofiane Bayazid reacted quickest to a defensive clearance off the goal-line, turning in the rebound to give Moloudia the lead.

Mohamed Benkhemassa doubled the advantage on the hour with a powerful long-range strike that flew into the net to make it 2-0.

Play was then stopped for several minutes after the second goal as Moloudia’s fans ignited fireworks in the stands, forcing the referee to pause proceedings until the situation was brought under control.

Al Hilal’s first pre-season defeat

The defeat was Al Hilal’s first of their pre-season schedule in Austria.

The Saudi champions had opened their camp with a 2-1 victory over Austrian side Sturm Graz, before following that up with a 2-0 win against South African club Mamelodi Sundowns.

Moloudia, meanwhile, arrived at the match having drawn 1-1 with Mamelodi Sundowns in their opening friendly of the camp.

Both clubs are using the Austrian training base to build fitness and rhythm ahead of the upcoming campaign, testing new signings and tactical options in a series of warm-up fixtures.