Karim Benzema enjoyed a dream debut for Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal on Thursday, scoring a hat-trick and providing an assist in a commanding 6–0 victory over struggling Al-Akhdoud.
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The 38-year-old joined Al-Hilal earlier this week after reports said he declined a contract extension with Al-Ittihad, whom he had joined in 2023 following a glittering 14-year spell at Real Madrid.
The former France international made an immediate impact, opening the scoring shortly after the half-hour mark with a stylish back-heel finish after capitalising on a loose ball inside the penalty area.
Benzema doubled Al-Hilal’s lead in the 60th minute with a low, close-range strike and completed his hat-trick just four minutes later with another effort from inside the box.
He then turned provider, setting up Malcom for Al-Hilal’s fourth goal before being substituted in the 71st minute to a warm reception from the crowd.
“It was an important game today, so we are happy. We played well, kept a clean sheet and scored goals,” Benzema said after the match. “Everybody has been good with me and given me everything, so when I am on the pitch, I give everything for them.”
Salem Al-Dawsari, the AFC Player of the Year for 2025, capped off the emphatic win with a brace as Al-Hilal continued their strong run at the top of the table.
