Ali Al-Bulayhi Booed by Al-Hilal Fans Amid Criticism
Al-Hilal defender Ali Al-Bulayhi faced boos from his own fans during a recent match, highlighting dissatisfaction with his performances in key games.
In a surprising turn of events during Al-Hilal’s commanding 9-0 victory over Al-Fateh in the Saudi Pro League, veteran defender Ali Al-Bulayhi faced boos from his own supporters as he was substituted in the 82nd minute. Despite the team’s impressive performance, this reaction from the crowd underscored lingering frustrations over Al-Bulayhi's recent form.
The discontent among fans stems from Al-Bulayhi’s underwhelming displays in crucial matches, particularly during Al-Hilal’s recent clash with Al-Ittihad in the King’s Cup. In that game, Al-Bulayhi struggled to contain Karim Benzema, whose goal came after a costly slip by the defender. The loss not only eliminated Al-Hilal from the competition but also heightened scrutiny of Al-Bulayhi’s performances.
As he left the pitch during the Al-Fateh game, Brazilian teammates Malcom and Renan Lodi intervened, signaling to the crowd to show support rather than criticism. Their gestures highlighted the need for unity and encouragement, especially as Al-Bulayhi works to regain his confidence and form.
Known for his on-field confrontations with global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, Al-Bulayhi has been a prominent figure in the Saudi Pro League. However, this season has proven to be one of the most challenging in his career. The negative reception from fans serves as a reminder of the high expectations placed on players at clubs like Al-Hilal.
Despite the backlash, Al-Hilal’s dominant victory over Al-Fateh showcased the team’s depth and quality. As the Saudi Pro League continues to gain global recognition, moments like these highlight the intense scrutiny players face and the importance of resilience in professional football.
Al-Bulayhi’s ability to bounce back and prove his worth will be critical as Al-Hilal aims to maintain its dominance domestically and in international competitions. For now, the defender’s focus will undoubtedly be on regaining the trust of the fans and delivering consistent performances on the pitch.