2005 Riyadh Derby Classic
The Crescent Moon of Saudi Football
Al-Hilal Saudi Football Club, 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, the club is one of three teams to have participated in every season of the Saudi Pro League since its establishment in 1976.
Quick Facts
- Venue
- Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium (Al-Malaz Stadium), Riyadh
Lore & Background
In domestic competitions, 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. 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). Internationally, Al-Hilal have made multiple appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup and were runners-up in the 2022 edition, becoming the first Asian club from outside the host nation to reach the final. In September 2009, Al-Hilal was awarded Greatest Asian Club of the 20th Century by the IFFHS.
Reader's Guide
The club was established on 15 October 1957 in Riyadh. Its name lasted for only one year before it was changed to its current name on 3 December 1958 by King Saud. Al-Hilal won the King's Cup trophy in 1961 and again in 1964. The club also won the Crown Prince Cup in 1963–64.
Al-Hilal were the inaugural winners when the Saudi Premier League came into existence in the 1976–77 season, and also won the league title in 1978–79. In the 1980s, the club won four league titles and four King's Cup titles. Al-Hilal were runners-up in the Asian Club Championship twice: second after the round-robin in the final round in 1986, and reaching the final in 1987. The club won their first Asian title, the Asian Club Championship, in 1991, beating Iranian club Esteghlal on penalties.
They won the Asian Cup Winners Cup and Asian Super Cup in 1997, the Asian Club Championship again in 1999–2000, and the 2002 Cup Winners Cup. In the 2000s, Al-Hilal won league titles in 2004–05, 2007–08, 2009–10, and 2010–11. Under Eric Gerets in 2009–10, Al-Hilal won the league with three games to spare and also won the Crown Prince Cup.
Did You Know?
- Al-Hilal has a market value of €242.5 million as of 2024, the highest in Saudi Arabia.
- Brazilian legends Mario Zagallo and Rivellino played for Al-Hilal in the 1970s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the 2005 Riyadh Derby Classic?
This match was a historic Saudi Premier League encounter between Al Hilal and their fierce rivals, Al Nassr, played at King Fahd International Stadium. It is celebrated as one of the most intense derbies in the capital's history during the mid-2000s golden era.
Who were the competitors in this classic match?
The fixture featured Al Hilal taking on their eternal rivals, Al Nassr, in a battle to determine supremacy in the Saudi capital. Both teams brought their best squads from the mid-2000s golden generation to the pitch.
Where did the 2005 Riyadh Derby take place?
The match was hosted at King Fahd International Stadium, which filled to capacity with passionate supporters from both sides. This grand stage in Riyadh provided a dramatic backdrop for one of the league's most electrifying encounters.
What made the atmosphere unique during this game?
Fans created an unforgettable environment by filling the stadium and showcasing intense support that highlighted the deep rivalry between the two clubs. The sheer passion on display turned the tactical battle into a memorable cultural event for Saudi football history.
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