Jobaaj Stories
Pakhtakor Stuns Al-Hilal in AFC Champions League Thriller
In a shocking upset that sent ripples through the AFC Champions League, Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor defeated Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal 1-0 in the first leg of their Round of 16 clash on March 4, 2025. This unexpected victory leaves Al-Hilal facing a daunting task in the return leg.
A Defensive Error Decides the Match
The game's lone goal came from Flamarion in the 29th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Al-Hilal. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, particularly in the second half, Al-Hilal's star players, including Kaio Cesar, Malcom, and Savic, were unable to find the back of the net against Pakhtakor's resilient defense and the impressive goalkeeping performance. The freezing conditions in Tashkent and a less-than-ideal pitch also played a significant role, as noted by Al-Hilal's coach, Jorge Jesus.
Al-Hilal's Struggles and Absences
Al-Hilal entered the match under pressure, having suffered recent losses in the Saudi Pro League. The absence of key players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, João Cancelo, and Saud Abdulhamid due to injury further hampered their performance. The team's struggles were evident in their inability to convert their numerous opportunities, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities as they pushed forward for an equalizer.
Pakhtakor's Resilience and Historic Win
Pakhtakor, having unexpectedly qualified for this stage, showcased remarkable resilience, defending resolutely and frustrating Al-Hilal's relentless attacks. This victory marks a significant upset, considering Al-Hilal's historical dominance over Pakhtakor in previous encounters. Post-match comments from Pakhtakor's coach, Pedro Moreira, and players like Igor Sergeev and Abdurauf Buriev highlighted the team’s tactical approach and determination.
The Road Ahead: Al-Hilal's Home Advantage
The 1-0 defeat places immense pressure on Al-Hilal for the return leg on March 11, 2025, in Riyadh. They must win by at least two goals to progress. While they will benefit from home advantage and the passionate support of their fans, overcoming this deficit will require a significant improvement in their performance. The match promises to be a captivating encounter, with Al-Hilal needing to show the fighting spirit and quality that defines their reputation.
