AFC Champions League Winners (2000)
The crescent moon of Saudi football, record Asian champions.
Al-Hilal Saudi Football Club (Arabic: نادي الهلال السعودي) commonly known simply as Al-Hilal, is a Saudi Arabian professional multi-sports club based in Riyadh. Its football team competes in the Saudi Pro League. The name "Al-Hilal" is Arabic for "the crescent moon". Founded on 16 October 1957 as Olympic Club, it was renamed Al-Hilal on 3 December 1958. The club is one of three teams to have participated in every season of the Saudi Pro League since its establishment in 1976.
- Competition
- Asian Club Championship
- Year Won
- 2000
- Final Opponent
- Júbilo Iwata
- Venue
- King Fahd International Stadium (Riyadh)
- Aggregate Score
- 5-3 on aggregate (2-2 away, 3-1 home)
- Key Captain
- Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi
Lore & Background
In continental competitions, the club has won a record eight AFC trophies, including four AFC Champions League titles (1991, 2000, 2019, 2021), two Asian Cup Winners' Cups (1997, 2002), and two Asian Super Cups (1997, 2000). The club won the Asian Club Championship in 1991, beating Iranian club Esteghlal in penalties in the final. The club won the Asian Club Championship again in 1999–2000, defeating Japanese club Júbilo Iwata 5–3 on aggregate (2–2 away, 3–1 home) in a two-legged final, with the tie being one of the most exciting and competitive in the competition's history.
In Their Own Story
The floodlights hummed over the pitch at Al-Sadaqah Stadium, casting long shadows on the green grass as the second leg of the final approached its climax. The air was thick with anticipation and the roar of a sea of blue-clad fans. As the referee blew the whistle for full time, the silence that briefly fell was instantly shattered by an eruption of joy. Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi raised his arms, looking up at the stars above Riyadh, knowing that this moment would be etched forever in the hearts of every Hilali fan.
Reader's Guide
Al-Hilal are the most successful Saudi club, having won a record 21 league titles, along with a record 13 Crown Prince Cup titles, seven Saudi Federation Cup titles, 10 King's Cup titles, five Saudi Super Cups, and the Saudi Founder's Cup. The club's first major trophy was the King's Cup in 1961. Al Hilal were the inaugural winners when the Saudi Premier League came into existence in the 1976–77 season.
Did You Know?
- Al-Hilal was awarded Greatest Asian Club of the 20th Century by the IFFHS in September 2009.
- The club has a market value of €242.5 million as of 2024, the highest in Saudi Arabia.
- Al-Hilal were runners-up in the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup, becoming the first Asian club from outside the host nation to reach the final.
- The club's name was changed to Al-Hilal on 3 December 1958 by King Saud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Al Hilal defeat to win the 2000 Asian title?
The club defeated Japanese opponents Júbilo Iwata in a thrilling two-legged final. This victory marked their second continental championship after winning back in 1991.
Where was the decisive home leg played during the 2000 campaign?
King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh hosted the crucial second match of the final. Fans gathered there to witness Al Hilal secure a 3-1 win to close out the tie.
What was the total aggregate score against Júbilo Iwata?
Al Hilal won the competition with a combined score of 5-3 across both legs. They drew 2-2 in the away game before dominating the home fixture.
Which player captained Al Hilal during this historic triumph?
Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi served as the captain for the squad throughout the tournament. His leadership was vital in guiding the team to their second Asian crown.
Why is the 2000 victory significant for Saudi Arabian football?
It proved that local clubs could compete effectively against top teams from Japan and South Korea. This win reinforced Al Hilal's status as a dominant force on the continental stage.
More in Honours & Records
Elsewhere in the Al Hilal universe
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