[WATCH] Neymar returns & scores in Al-Hilal's mid-season friendly against Al-Fayha

The Brazilian is nearing full fitness just before his team returns to action in January 2025

In a friendly match between Al-Hilal and Al-Fayha in the season break, Neymar was back on the field and among the goals.

After former Barcelona winger Malcom scored the second goal, the Brazilian superstar put Al-Hilal ahead 2-0 over their fellow Saudi Pro League team. When Neymar converted a first-time attempt from close to the penalty spot, he had all the time in the world. He played a significant role in winning the ball back high up the field in the second as well.

It’s merely an unofficial friendly, but it’s Neymar’s first goal for Al-Hilal in more than a year, since the AFC Champions League in October 2023. After making his eagerly anticipated return in October of this year, he played just twice before suffering an ACL injury shortly after and then was out for nearly two months due to a hamstring ailment.

Neymar impressed on his return from injury

During the practice match, Neymar looked impressive and seems to be getting at his best as he will be important for the Saudi team this season, though he cannot participate in the league games but will be pumped to lead his side in the AFC Champions League elite.

Al-Hilal maxed out their quota of international players, which prevented Neymar from playing in the first part of the Saudi Pro League season even after he recovered for a few weeks. The AFC Champions League does not have similar regulations.

However, over eighteen months after leaving Paris Saint-Germain for an eye-watering contract in the Middle East, he will be trying to make up lost time by getting on the field domestically as soon as possible. On January 7, Al-Hilal will play Al-Ittihad in the King’s Cup. Four days later, they will play Al-Orobah in the league. They are currently second in the league table behind Al-Ittihad.

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