Libyan Premier League: Al Hilal win in latest edition of Benghazi Derby

The Libyan Premier League has completed two rounds for its Championship Stage following action on Tuesday in Milan, Italy and the big story of the day was the latest edition of the Benghazi Derby. After the previous editions ended in draws this season, Al Hilal Benghazi earned a crucial victory with a 2-1 result.

Talha Rizaq, who joined Al Hilal from their cross town rivals for the 2024-25 season, exploited a moment of disaster in the Ahly defense to score and made sure to show respect by not celebrating his goal.

The advantage was doubled by the 27th minute for Hilal after the Ahly defense was again exposed, leading to a foul in the box and a successful penalty kick for veteran Faisal Al Badri. Sudan national team attacker John Mano pulled a goal back for Ahly early in the second half but the damage was done and Ahly have lost both of their opening games.

Al Ittihad and Swehly SC both needed victories to keep pace with leaders Hilal and Al Ahli Tripoli and it was Ittihad who prevailed with a 3-2 victory. Mahmoud Al Shalui provided the best moment of brilliance from the second round with a beautiful long distance strike for Ittihad’s third goal.

Al Shalui’s strike was the decisive moment in an entertaining battle. Former long time Espérance Tunis midfielder Fousseny Coulibaly scored both of Swehly’s goals but it was not enough for a team that continues to entertain but is not getting the results they need. Ittihad have a victory and a defeat so far while Swehly only have one point.

Finally, title favorites Al Ahli Tripoli were held to a 0-0 draw by Al Akhdar. It was not a big surprise to see this duel end scoreless, considering both teams possess two of the best defenses in the league. Both teams remain in the top-3 following the result, tied with Al Hilal Benghazi on four points.

League Table (2 rounds played)

1. Al Ahli Tripoli- 4 points
2. Al Hilal Benghazi- 4 points
3. Al Akhdar- 4 points
4. Al Ittihad- 3 points
5. Swehly SC- 1 point
6. Al Ahly Benghazi- 0 points