In a thrilling clash in Baghdad, Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad overturned an early deficit to beat Iraq Stars League side Al Shorta 4-1, securing their first win in the AFC Champions League Elite. After two straight losses, the Riyadh-based side finally clicked on Monday night, showcasing resilience and attacking flair on a historic night for their fans.
Al Shorta stunned the visitors just five minutes in, when Mehdi Ashabi's corner found Bassam Shakir, who tapped home from close range. But the lead lasted only 12 minutes. Mahamadou Doumbia orchestrated the equalizer, threading a pass to Moussa Diaby, whose cool header found the net.
The Saudi heavyweights seized control in the 29th minute as Fabinho unleashed a spectacular long-range free kick into the bottom corner. A second-half setback saw Danilo Pereira sent off for a second yellow card, reducing Al Ittihad to 10 men. Yet the under-pressure visitors ripped open Al Shorta's defense after the hour mark, with Diaby racing into the box and teeing up Houssem Aouar to slot home.
Diaby and Aouar struck again in the 76th minute, combining on a fast break that sealed the comeback, leaving Al Ittihad seventh in the West Region standings with three points.
Meanwhile, back in Saudi Arabia, Al Ahli cruised to a 4-0 home win over Qatar's Al Gharafa. Enzo Millot opened the scoring before Franck Kessie added a quickfire brace, and Saleh Abu Al-Shamat wrapped up the rout in the second half. Al Ahli top the West Region with seven points after two wins and a draw.
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Al Ittihad beat Al Shorta for first win in AFC Champions League Elite
cgtn.com
