Simone Inzaghi accepts blame as Al Hilal's 47-game unbeaten run ended by Neom

The Saudi Pro League season began with a shocking turn as Al Hilal's perfect start of winning all five opening games came to an abrupt end against Neom at Kingdom Arena. This marked the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi's first defeat since he took over in the summer of 2025, bringing an end to Hilal's impressive 47-game unbeaten run in the competition.

Inzaghi acknowledged his personal responsibility for the loss, stating that despite creating five chances in the first half, they failed to convert them. He also commended Neom's goalkeeper for their strong performance. The Brazilian trio of Gabriel Martinelli, Ollie Watkins, and Cyrenscio Summerville were all selected in Inzaghi's lineup, with the trio having been signed this summer from Premier League clubs for a combined fee reported to be over $200 million.

However, Neom's determined and well-organized tactics ultimately proved too much for Hilal. Koulibaly's own goal and Kone's late goal put Hilal behind early on, but the loss proved to be a reminder for Inzaghi to keep learning from his mistakes and focus on the positive, as they remain at the top of the table.