Against a sea of 60,000 green-and-white supporters at King Abdullah Sports City, Al Ahli delivered a performance for the ages, clinching their maiden AFC Champions League Elite title with a 2-0 triumph over Japan's Kawasaki Frontale.
From the first whistle, the two-time continental runners-up looked determined to end their wait for glory. Brazilian winger Galeno opened the scoring in the 35th minute, sweeping a curling effort into the top corner after a slick pass from tournament MVP Roberto Firmino.
Just before halftime, former AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie rose above Kawasaki's defense to head home Firmino's pinpoint cross, doubling the hosts' advantage and sending the crowd into raptures.
All knockout rounds—from the quarterfinals to the final—were held in Jeddah, giving Al Ahli a home-turf edge.
Al Ahli's unbeaten run through the knockout stages showcased a blend of big-game experience and home-ground passion. Stars like Riyad Mahrez, who finished the tournament with nine goals, and European Champions League winners Edouard Mendy added pedigree to the squad.
Despite Kawasaki's spirited push—fuelled by their own historic semifinals win over Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr—they struggled to create clear chances against a rock-solid Al Ahli backline.
'Our goal was to be champions in front of our fans,' said goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. 'Since I arrived 18 months ago, this support has driven us. Winning here makes history for the club.'
With this victory, Al Ahli join Saudi siblings Al Ittihad and Al Hilal as the third Saudi club to lift Asia's premier club trophy, but no one will soon forget this unbeaten night in Jeddah.
Reference(s):
Al Ahli claim first Asian Champions League Elite title in club history
cgtn.com
