Al-Hilal (Template:Lang-ar) is a Saudi Arabian professional football club based in the country's capital of Riyadh. The team achieved the largest number of trophies among Saudi teams with 48 official trophies since its founding in 1957[1]. Al-Hilal has a reputation for being the most widely government supported club in Saudi Arabia.[2]
Among the club's most famous players were Sami Al-Jaber, the longtime star of the Saudi Arabian national football team, and Yousuf Al-Thunayan a player who amazed saudi football fans by his skills. The captain of the team Mohamed Al-Deayea is the current world record holder for most international appearances[3][4]. The very well-known Brazilian, Rivelino, also played for Al-Hilal from 1978 to 1981.
The nickname "AL-Zaeem", which means "The Boss", came from the club's leading position in Saudi Arabia and Asia.[5]
History
The Al-Hilal Club was originally known as the Olympic Club during its founding in 1957/10/16 .
The club's name was changed in 1958/12/3 decree from the then-King Saud after he attended a tournament that was contested between the Olympic Club, Al-Shabab, Al-Riyadh and El-Kawkab clubs.[6]
Usual starting line-up for Al-Hilal (season 2009-10).
First-team squad
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
Last updated: 3 AUG 2009 Div. = Division; SPL = Saudi Premier League; ZSL = Zain Saudi League; Pos. = Position; Pl = Match played; W = Win; D = Draw; L = Lost GS = Goal Scored; GA = Goal Against; GD = Goal difference P = Points CC = Champions Cup; CPC = Crown Prince Cup; PFC = Prince Faisal Cup ARCL = Arab Champions League; ACL = AFC Champions League;GCC = Gulf Club Champions Cup;ASC = Asian Super Cup
Colors: Gold = winner; Silver = runner-up.