Al Hilal Edge SK Sturm Graz II 2-1 in International Club Friendly

In an entertaining pre-season friendly played on 19 July 2026, Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal came from behind to defeat Austrian second-tier side SK Sturm Graz II by a score of 2-1. The match, hosted at the Stadion Graz-Liebenau, provided both teams with valuable minutes ahead of their respective competitive campaigns.

Match Summary and Early Action

SK Sturm Graz II, the reserve team of the Austrian Bundesliga club, started the game with energy and purpose. They took a surprise lead in the 18th minute when forward Lukas Hacker latched onto a through ball from midfielder Tobias Schützenauer and slotted calmly past Al Hilal goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais. The young Austrian side pressed high and disrupted Al Hilal's rhythm in the opening half-hour, forcing several turnovers in midfield.

However, Al Hilal’s experience and quality gradually began to tell. The Saudi champions equalised in the 34th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Brazilian winger Michel Oliveira picked up the ball on the left flank, cut inside onto his right foot, and curled a stunning effort into the top corner from 20 yards. The goal was a reminder of the technical ability that makes Al Hilal one of Asia’s most dangerous attacking sides.

Second Half Dominance and Winning Goal

The second half saw Al Hilal take control of possession and tempo. Manager Jorge Jesus made several tactical adjustments, pushing full-backs higher and instructing midfielders to press more aggressively. The breakthrough came in the 67th minute. A swift counter-attack ended with Saudi international striker Saleh Al-Shehri receiving the ball on the edge of the box. He turned his marker and fired a low shot into the far corner, giving goalkeeper Fabian Brunner no chance.

SK Sturm Graz II tried to respond but found Al Hilal’s defence, marshalled by Korean centre-back Jang Hyun-soo, impenetrable. The Austrian side almost snatched a late equaliser when substitute Matthias Kainz headed against the crossbar in the 82nd minute, but Al Hilal held on to secure a 2-1 victory.

Standout Players

• Michel Oliveira (Al Hilal) – The Brazilian winger was a constant threat and scored a sensational equaliser.
• Saleh Al-Shehri (Al Hilal) – Poacher’s finish to win the game; his movement caused problems throughout.
• Lukas Hacker (SK Sturm Graz II) – Took his goal well and showed promising link-up play.
• Jang Hyun-soo (Al Hilal) – Dominant in the air and composed on the ground, key to keeping the clean sheet after the equaliser.

Context and Season Preparation

For Al Hilal, this friendly was part of a European pre-season tour designed to sharpen match fitness before the Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League campaigns. The win against a well-organised SK Sturm Graz II side—who compete in the Austrian 2. Liga—provided a useful test of depth and resilience. SK Sturm Graz II, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their first-half performance and will look to integrate those positives into their league season.

The 2-1 scoreline reflected a game that was competitive and open, offering entertainment for the neutral and valuable data for both coaching staffs.