Al-Hilal Injury Update: Triple Blow Before Damac Clash

Al-Hilal Injury Update: Key Points
- Karim Benzema is out with a lower back injury.
- Salem Al-Dawsari has a calf muscle problem.
- Murad Hawsawi is also a doubt with a back issue.
- All three face fitness tests before the Damac match.
The latest Al-Hilal injury update reveals a significant crisis ahead of a crucial league fixture. Karim Benzema, Salem Al-Dawsari, and Murad Hawsawi are all major doubts for the match against Damac. This triple absence threatens the team’s title aspirations in the Saudi Pro League.
Fans need to know who is available for the upcoming game. The answer is that three key players are racing against time to be fit. Therefore, this article provides the full medical bulletin and explains how Al-Hilal might cope without its stars.
Why This Al-Hilal Injury Update Matters Now
Al-Hilal face Damac at Kingdom Arena on April 28. The team sits six points behind league leaders Al-Nassr. Consequently, dropping points at home is simply not an option for the defending champions.
This Al-Hilal injury update is critical for understanding the team’s chances. The club officially confirmed that all three players are in rehabilitation. A final decision on their availability will come after a medical assessment before the match.

Benzema’s Absence: A Recurring Problem
Karim Benzema is sidelined with a lower back injury. This is his third physical issue since joining Al-Hilal in January 2026. He previously missed time with a groin problem and a toe injury.
Despite these interruptions, the French forward has been remarkably productive. He has scored 8 goals in just 8 appearances for the club. However, the recurring nature of his absences is a real concern for the coaching staff.

Al-Dawsari’s Calf Issue Threatens Creativity
Salem Al-Dawsari is arguably the club’s most important creative player. He is currently receiving treatment for a calf muscle problem. Calf injuries carry a high risk of aggravation if a player returns too soon.
Therefore, manager Simone Inzaghi is unlikely to take unnecessary risks. When Al-Dawsari missed a recent match against Al-Taawoun, the attack looked disjointed. His potential absence for the Damac game is a massive tactical blow for the home side.

Hawsawi Joins the Injury List
Murad Hawsawi is the third confirmed name on the injury report. The Saudi midfielder is dealing with a lower back problem, similar to Benzema. He is also undergoing rehabilitation ahead of the Damac fixture.
His importance to the team is often understated by casual observers. Hawsawi provides valuable cover across multiple midfield positions. His absence narrows Inzaghi’s tactical options and limits squad rotation possibilities.

How Al-Hilal Can Cope Without Its Stars
Inzaghi will likely need to adjust his tactics for this match. He will probably lean on Marcos Leonardo as the central striker. Furthermore, Malcom and Ruben Neves will provide the creative platform from deeper areas.
Replacing the combined influence of Benzema and Al-Dawsari is a significant ask. Damac are fighting to avoid relegation and have frustrated bigger teams before. As a result, this match is now a far more open contest than it appeared on paper.
FAQs About the Al-Hilal Injury Update
Will Karim Benzema play against Damac on April 28?
His participation is very uncertain due to a lower back injury.
What injury does Salem Al-Dawsari have?
He is dealing with a calf muscle problem.
Is Murad Hawsawi fit to play?
He is a doubt with a lower back complaint.
Where is the Al-Hilal vs Damac match being played?
The fixture takes place at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
Why is this injury crisis happening now?
The squad is stretched from competing in multiple competitions.
Conclusion: Title Hopes Face a Real Test
This Al-Hilal injury update paints a worrying picture for the club’s fans. The potential loss of Benzema, Al-Dawsari, and Hawsawi is a genuine threat to their title ambitions. Inzaghi’s management of this crisis could define the entire season. Therefore, the match against Damac is now a must-win game under difficult circumstances.
