Neymar made his much-anticipated debut for Al Hilal on Friday and did not disappoint, although fans were left frustrated by an incident late in the match.
The former Barcelona and PSG star, aged 31, joined the Saudi Pro League club in a £78 million move earlier in the summer but had to wait to make his debut due to an injury upon arrival.
Saudi fans finally had the chance to see the Brazilian in action when he came off the bench in the second half of their match against Al Riyadh. Neymar was introduced with around half an hour remaining, and Al Hilal was leading 2-0 at the time.
He had an immediate impact, playing a part in not one but three goals as Al Hilal went on to win 6-1, with Aleksandar Mitrovic, Yasser Alshahrani, Nasser Aldawsari, Malcolm and Salem Aldawsari all scoring for Neymar’s side.
Neymar was unlucky not to score himself, coming close on several occasions.
A compilation of his impressive debut has since gone viral on social media. Check it out below.
Compilation du premier match de Neymar avec Al-Hilal !pic.twitter.com/kLNuWuYsvn
— Click & Foot (@ClickAndFoot) September 15, 2023
Al Hilal fans were left frustrated when Neymar appeared to decline the opportunity to score his first goal for the club late in the match.
The scenario seemed destined for Neymar to score on his debut when Al Hilal was awarded a penalty with approximately three minutes remaining in regular time.
But to the surprise of the crowd, winger Aldawsari stepped up to take the spot kick instead.
The home crowd booed the decision, after realising the club’s record signing wouldn’t be taking the penalty.
Thankfully, Aldawsari scored and was joined in celebration by Neymar.
Al Hilal moved to the top of the Saudi Pro League after their win, having won five and drawn one of their opening six matches.
They next face Uzbekistan Super League side Navbahor in the AFC Champions League on Monday – and you certainly wouldn’t bet against Neymar opening his account for his new club.