Al Hilal's head coach, Simone Inzaghi, decided to exclude defender Kalidou Koulibaly from the match against Al Sadd of Qatar, as part of the AFC Champions League elite competition.

This decision came as a precautionary measure from the Italian coach, who preferred not to risk the player after the recent injury he sustained.

The step aims to give Koulibaly enough time for full recovery and to avoid any complications that might affect his readiness in the upcoming phase.

The Senegalese defender is considered one of the key pillars in Al-Hilal's lineup, as the coaching staff relies heavily on him in the defensive line.

Koulibaly was injured during the last match against Al-Kholood, which ended with Al-Hilal's victory, before it was confirmed that he would likely miss the match against Al-Sadd.

The player is expected to return to participation after the next match, provided he fully responds to the treatment program set for him.