Al Kholood make history, face Al Hilal in King's Cup final

Al Kholood book spot in first ever King's Cup final

Al Kholood and Al Hilal will meet in this season’s King’s Cup final after both came through dramatic penalty-shootout wins on Wednesday night.

Al Kholood, used to creating history given they are the first foreign-owned club in the Roshn Saudi League, saw off defending champions Al Ittihad 5-4 on penalties after the match finished 1-1 in 90 minutes and then 2-2 in extra-time.

Goalkeeper Juan Pablo Cozzani was the hero in the shootout, the Argentine saving Moussa Diaby’s penalty for the Harburg Group-owned Al Kholood to reach a first King Cup’s final.

Al Kholood players delight in shootout win v Al Ittihad to seal first-ever place in King's Cup final

Al Kholood players delight in shootout win v Al Ittihad to seal first-ever place in King's Cup final

In the other semi-final, Al Hilal defeated fellow RSL title challengers Al Ahli also on penalties, that encounter finishing 1-1 in normal time.

After a goalless additional 30 minutes, Al Hilal prevailed 4-2 in the shootout, Yassine Bono saving twice - including from 2025-26 RSL top scorer Ivan Toney - before Theo Hernandez converted his spot-kick to send Al Hilal into the showpiece.

Al Hilal captain Salem Al Dawsari leads celebrations after club defeat Al Ahli to book spot in King's Cup final

Al Hilal captain Salem Al Dawsari leads celebrations after club defeat Al Ahli to book spot in King's Cup final