Martinelli’s late strike earns Al Hilal victory on Salem Al-Dawsari’s return

Gabriel Martinelli scored in the 89th minute to give Al Hilal a 1-0 victory over Al Hazem in the 10th round of the Saudi League.

The Brazilian forward struck in the final two minutes to settle a closely contested match and secure a third consecutive league win for Al Hilal this season.

The result moved Al Hilal to 24 points at the top of the Saudi League standings, two points clear of second-placed Al-Qadsiah.

Al Hazem remain 10th with nine points after suffering defeat despite keeping the score level until the closing stages.

The match also marked the return of Al Hilal captain Salem Al-Dawsari, who made his comeback after being unavailable since the World Cup with Saudi Arabia because of injury.