Karim Benzema has intensified anticipation ahead of the crucial Riyadh derby between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr by describing the upcoming encounter as a “final” in the race for the Saudi Pro League title.
The French striker issued the challenge after helping Al-Hilal secure the King’s Cup title, his first trophy since joining the Saudi side. Al-Hilal defeated Al-Kholood 2-1 in the final played at Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, on Friday.
Attention has now shifted immediately to Tuesday’s derby, a match expected to have a major influence on the outcome of the league title race between the two Riyadh rivals.
Speaking ahead of the contest, Benzema underlined the importance of the occasion and insisted victory was essential for his team’s ambitions this season.
“I am very happy, I signed with Al-Hilal to win championships, to continue winning and developing, and I hope we will win another title. I am not lucky, nothing comes by chance, and I never rely on that, but rather on my effort and work.”
The former Real Madrid forward also stressed the significance of the meeting with Al-Nassr, describing it as one of the defining moments of the campaign.
“The Al-Nassr match is definitely a big one and is considered a final for us. We need to prove ourselves and perform at a better level, and we will see what happens in this anticipated match.”
The derby will take place at Al-Awwal Park, the home stadium of Al-Nassr, during the 32nd round of league fixtures.
Al-Hilal, coached by Simone Inzaghi, enter the match knowing that anything less than victory could severely damage their hopes of retaining pressure in the championship race.
The Saudi league battle has intensified in recent weeks as the season approaches its conclusion. Al-Nassr currently sit at the top of the table with 82 points and have only two matches left to play — against Al-Hilal and Damac FC.
A victory in the derby would place Al-Nassr in a commanding position and significantly weaken the title hopes of their long-time rivals.
Al-Hilal occupy second place on 77 points, five behind the leaders, although they still hold a mathematical advantage due to having one additional match remaining after the derby.
Following Tuesday’s showdown, Al-Hilal are scheduled to host Neom SC on 16 May before travelling to face Al-Fayha FC five days later in their final league fixture.
The growing tension surrounding the title race has added even greater significance to the Riyadh derby, with supporters viewing the encounter as a potential turning point in the season.
For Benzema, the match also represents another opportunity to demonstrate his influence since arriving in Saudi Arabia. After lifting his first trophy with Al-Hilal, the striker is now aiming to guide the club toward another major title in what has become one of the closest league races in recent years.
With the pressure mounting on both sides and the championship potentially hanging in the balance, the latest edition of the Riyadh derby is expected to attract enormous attention across Saudi football and beyond.
