Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — In one of the Saudi Pro League’s most memorable nights, Al Ahli stormed back from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Al Hilal at King Abdullah Sports City on Friday, salvaging a point that felt like victory for the home side.

Al Hilal looked certain to claim a famous away win after racing into a 3-0 first-half lead.

Malcom struck twice and set up Theo Hernandez for another as Simone Inzaghi’s men dominated early exchanges.

The Brazilian winger opened the scoring in the 12th minute, sending Hernandez clear for a composed finish, before Darwin Nunez bullied Roger Ibanez to tee up Malcom for 2-0.

Malcom added his second in the 41st minute, finishing from close range after a low cross by captain Salem Al Dawsari.

The visitors could have scored more, with Nunez and Malcom both squandering chances, while Edouard Mendy denied further damage.

Riyad Mahrez, meanwhile, forced Yassine Bounou into action with a curling free kick before the break.

Al Hilal, seemingly in control, hit the post through Al Dawsari midway through the second half.

But Al Ahli’s late surge turned the game on its head. Ivan Toney gave the hosts hope in the 78th minute, sliding in Mahrez’s low cross.

Five minutes later, the England striker rose to meet another Mahrez delivery, heading home for 3-2.

With the crowd in full voice, Al Ahli completed the incredible comeback in stoppage time.

Merih Demiral powered in a header from Mahrez’s corner, sending the home fans into raptures as the Green Brigade sealed a point in a six-goal thriller.

The result leaves both sides level on five points after three rounds, with Al Hilal sitting seventh, just ahead of Al Ahli on goal difference. Newly promoted Al Qadsiah top the standings with seven points.