The goal scored by Portuguese star Ruben Neves, Al-Hilal's midfielder, against Al-Riyadh, was awarded the best goal of the 19th round of the Saudi Professional League. This award came after a fierce competition decided by a fan vote on the league's official platforms, reaffirming the player's significant talent as one of the most prominent international stars in Saudi football.
The Roshan League had announced its shortlist for the award, which included, in addition to Neves' goal, a goal by Zambian striker Fashion Sakala of Al-Fayha, and another outstanding strike. However, Neves's perfectly executed long-range shot that nestled into the net received the highest number of votes, confirming the significant technical value he has brought to the Saudi League.
Background of the deal and player impact
This accolade further cements Ruben Neves' global reputation as one of the best long-range shooters. The Portuguese star, who joined Al-Hilal in the summer of 2013 from English club Wolverhampton Wanderers in a high-profile transfer, has always been known for his exceptional ability to score spectacular goals from outside the penalty area, making him a valuable addition to Al-Hilal's attacking system and a key player in the team's lineup.
The importance of the award in the context of the development of the Saudi League
Neves's win reflects the significant transformation underway in the Saudi Professional League, which has become a destination for some of the world's biggest football stars. Attracting players of the caliber of Neves, Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema has not only raised the technical level of the competition but has also intensified the competition for individual and team awards, making every round of the league a focus of attention for millions around the world. These weekly awards contribute to increased fan engagement and enhance the league's brand.
Local and international impact of the goal
Domestically, this goal enhances Neves' standing with Al-Hilal fans and highlights his crucial role in the team, even in matches that don't end in victory, such as the 1-1 draw against Al-Riyadh. Internationally, the circulation of such spectacular goals across global media outlets directly contributes to promoting the Roshan League as a high-quality sports and entertainment product, encouraging more viewers to tune in and supporting the strategic vision of Saudi sports. Thus, Ruben Neves adds another impressive achievement to his career with Al-Hilal, providing further evidence that the significant investments made by Saudi clubs are beginning to bear fruit on the pitch.
