Head coach Simone Inzaghi expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance against Al-Shabab, emphasizing that Al-Hilal controlled the match. He said: “We were more focused and controlled the game. We faced a well-organized side with strong attacking qualities. We had the greater share of possession and performed better in the second half. We tried to increase the tempo and make the most of the spaces available, but we were unfortunate with some of our attacking opportunities.”

Speaking about Mohammed Mahzari’s impressive performance, Inzaghi revealed that the coaching staff had been monitoring the player since last season, saying: “We had some challenges at the right back last season, and we have been following Mahzari since then. He has been performing very well, and we are also looking forward to Hamad Al-Yami’s return from injury.”

Inzaghi also addressed Hassan Al-Tambakti’s condition, clarifying that his substitution was not related to injury. He said: “Hassan recently returned from injury and has taken part in five training sessions with us. His substitution was due to fatigue, not injury.”

About Crysencio Summerville and Gabriel Martinelli, Inzaghi said: “Both players are capable of playing on the right. When Martinelli came on, he played on that side, and after Sabri Dahal was introduced, Martinelli moved to the left.”

Inzaghi also praised Sultan Mandash for his performances, saying: “Sultan has been performing very well since the start of the season. He delivered another impressive performance during his 70 minutes on the pitch and is one of the outstanding Saudi players.”

Inzaghi made these remarks during the post-match press conference following Al-Hilal’s away match against Al-Shabab in the fifth round of Roshn Saudi League.