The Egypt frontman joined Hilal from Ismaili in the winter transfer window on loan and has been establishing himself as a starter over the past weeks.

Many of the Saudi giants' fans slated Ali and called for his immediate departure after the team's 2-1 home loss to Sepahan Esfahan in the AFC Champions League early this month.

But the 24-year-old produced a commendable display in the Saudi Crown Prince Cup match against Nasser to ease the pressure on him.

"Although he didn't score Ahmed Ali was one of best players from both teams, thanks to his movements on the pitch," read a match report on prominent Saudi paper Al-Riyadh.

Ali is spending his first spell away from Egypt at Hilal.

He kicked off his professional career at ENPPI before moving to Asyut Petroleum.

The talented hitman flourished at Ismaili and won his first Egypt called-up in 2010.