Salem Mohammed Shafi Al-Dawsari, born on 19 August 1991 in Jeddah, currently captains both Al-Hilal and the Saudi Arabia national team. Over a career spanning more than fifteen years, he has established himself as a prominent figure in Asian football, defined by his long-term tenure at the Saudi Pro League club and his significant scoring contributions on the global stage.
Early Career and Al-Hilal Tenure
Al-Dawsari entered the Al-Hilal youth academy at age 14. He made his professional debut for the club in 2010 at age 19. His career has been defined by his consistency at the club, broken only by a one-year loan spell at Villarreal. During his time in Spain, he appeared as a substitute against Real Madrid in a 2–2 draw. Returning to Al-Hilal, he contributed to the 2019 AFC Champions League title, scoring in the second leg of the final against Urawa Red Diamonds. His domestic trophy haul includes multiple Saudi Pro League titles, King's Cups, and Saudi Super Cup victories.
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His national team career began with the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where he recorded his first goal against Australia. In 2018, he scored a winning goal against Egypt during the World Cup in Russia. He played a key role in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, scoring a goal against Argentina in a 2–1 victory. By 30 November 2022, he had reached three total World Cup goals. On 8 October 2025, he marked his 100th international appearance in a match against Indonesia.
Records and Individual Recognition
Al-Dawsari holds the record for the most goals by an Asian player in the history of the FIFA Club World Cup with five goals. In 2023, he scored two penalties against Flamengo in the semi-finals to help Al-Hilal become the first Saudi club to reach the tournament final. In 2025, he achieved his second AFC Player of the Year award, becoming the first Saudi player to win the honor twice. He has also been named to the IFFHS Asian Men's Team of the Year on four occasions.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 August 1991, Jeddah
- Club: Al-Hilal
- International debut: 2014
- 100th international cap: 8 October 2025
- Club World Cup goals: 5
- AFC Player of the Year: 2022, 2025
- Loan club: Villarreal
- Position: Left winger
Questions readers ask
How many AFC Player of the Year awards has Salem Al-Dawsari won?
He has won the award twice, in 2022 and 2025.
Which European club did Al-Dawsari play for on loan?
He played for Villarreal in Spain for one year.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
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