Brazilian Roberto Firmino scored a hat-trick to lead Al-Ahli to a 3-1 victory over Al-Hazm at the start of the Saudi Professional League football on Friday. Firmino, who joined Al-Ahli in the current transfer window from Liverpool, put them in the lead after six minutes before doubling the score three minutes later from close range. Vinicio Souza, Al-Hazm's player, reduced the gap with a calmly taken goal in the 50th minute, but the Brazilian player widened the lead beyond Al-Hazm's reach with another close-range goal in the 72nd minute. Firmino, Riyad Mahrez and ex-Chelsea keeper Mendy were three of the many big names who have moved to the Saudi Pro League for this new season. Al-Ahli were one of four teams taken over by the Public Investment Fund this summer, and have recruited heavily. Former Roma defender Roger Ibanez, ex-Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie and former Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin were among the other players making their Saudi league debuts for Al-Ahli. — SG
