Neymar provides assist on debut as Al Hilal thrash Al Riyadh
Football![Neymar provides assist on debut as Al Hilal thrash Al Riyadh](https://images.sportsbrief.com/images/320x180/ac5aa77637137245.webp?v=1)
Neymar Junior's challenging beginning in the Saudi Pro League persisted as he missed a penalty during Al-Hilal's match against Al Shabab.
The Brazilian, who joined the Blue Waves from PSG in a blockbuster deal, has encountered difficulties in finding the net in his first three matches. Despite a promising cameo appearance that included an assist, Neymar has been unable to register a goal.
On Friday, September 29, the former Santos and Barcelona star faced another setback in his quest for a goal when he failed to convert from the penalty spot.
The 31-year-old had an ideal chance to break his goal drought in the Saudi League when the Blue Waves were granted a penalty in the 37th minute.
Neymar provides assist on debut as Al Hilal thrash Al Riyadh
FootballUnfortunately, Neymar's attempt was expertly thwarted by Korean goalkeeper Seun-Gyu Kim, leaving the scoreline unaltered, per SportBIBLE.
Despite his penalty miss, Neymar played a role in Hilal's two goals. In the 68th minute, Kalidou Koulibaly connected with his precise cross from a corner kick.
Then again, former Fulham striker Aleksander Mitrovic also capitalized on one of the Brazilian's moments of brilliance in the box to extend the home side's lead.
Neymar, who recently achieved the title of Brazil's all-time leading scorer, will be aiming to finally get off the mark when Al-Hilal takes on Nassaji Mazandaran in the AFC Champions League clash scheduled for October 3rd.
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus has affirmed that he maintains an excellent rapport with Brazil's superstar Neymar Jr., despite prior speculations hinting at a rift between them.
What Neymar said after debut delight with Al Hilal ends with an assist and sweet victory
FootballThe 31-year-old forward was the subject of rumours regarding a potential dressing room altercation with his coach, which resulted in him being omitted from the squad for Al-Hilal's King Cup victory against Al-Jabalain.
The Portuguese coach has now categorically denied these rumours, asserting that their relationship is strong. He further clarified that Neymar's absence from the squad was solely due to his lack of physical readiness.