Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Al Hilal bounced back swiftly from its recent setback, returning to winning form with a commanding 4-0 victory over Al Okhdood at Kingdom Arena in Matchweek 18 of the Saudi Pro League.

The emphatic win solidified Al Hilal's position at the top of the table, reaching 46 points, three points ahead of Al Ittihad, which still has a game in hand against Al Kholood on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Al Okhdood remains at 15 points, unable to improve its standing after the heavy defeat.

New signing Kaio César had a dream debut, making an immediate impact by scoring the opening goal in the 5th minute.

Al Hilal maintained control of the game and doubled its lead just before halftime when Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinković-Savić converted a well-placed free kick in the 43rd minute.

Before the first half concluded, Brazilian striker Marcus Leonardo extended the lead with a third goal, and he continued his impressive form by scoring again early in the second half, sealing a dominant performance for Al Hilal.

With his brace, Marcus Leonardo has now matched the goal tally of Serbian forward Aleksandar Mitrović, who has been sidelined for several weeks due to injury. Both players currently have 12 goals in the Saudi Pro League this season.