It didn’t take long for Yassine Bono to remind why he's rated one of the best goalkeepers not only in the Roshn Saudi League, but in all of Asia.
The Al Hilal No.1, who helped the Riyadh club to record-breaking title success last season, starred on Tuesday night in his side’s Saudi Super Cup semi-final victory against Al Ahli.
After the match in Abha had ended 1-1 – Aleksandar Mitrovic struck in the final minute of normal time to cancel out Roberto Firmino’s finish just after the hour – Bono did what he has often done for the Morocco national team: excelled in a penalty shootout.
The former Sevilla stopper saved brilliantly from Gabi Veiga, while Roger Ibanez struck his spot-kick against the crossbar, for Al Hilal to triumph 4-1 on penalties. The defending champions now face either Al Nassr or Al Taawoun in Saturday’s final.
Whoever it will be, for sure Bono will again be integral to his side's chances. It must be pretty reassuring for his teammates, then, that they have behind them the RSL 2023-24 Goalkeeper of the Season, not to mention CAF's 2023 Best Goalkeeper in Africa.
Bono’s ability last campaign was a major part in Al Hilal sealing the RSL trophy unbeaten, with a league-best 23 goals conceded and a 75 percent save percentage - the highest among all goalkeepers with 10 or more appearances in 2023-24. More of the same when the new season kicks off on August 22 might just propel Al Hilal to more glory.
But don’t just take our word for it. Check out Bono’s brilliance here.
