Sandy Verma
Tezzbuzz|30-04-2025
Jeddah, April 30, 2025 — In a historic night for Saudi Arabian football, Al-Ahli secured their place in the AFC Champions League Elite final for the first time, defeating regional rivals Al-Hilal 3-1 at home in Jeddah on Tuesday.
With this victory, Al-Ahli are now just one step away from lifting their maiden continental title.Al-Ahli opened the match with aggressive intent, and it paid off early.
In the 9th minute, Brazilian winger Galeno delivered a precise cross from a Roger Ibañez pass, which Roberto Firmino converted from inside the six-yard box to give his team a 1–0 lead.By the 27th minute, Ivan Toney doubled the advantage with a calm finish from Riyad Mahrez’s assist.
The goal was initially ruled offside, but after a VAR reviewit was confirmed and stood, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.Just before halftime, Salem Al-Dawsari capitalized on a defensive lapse to bring Al-Hilal back into the game at 2–1.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the 60th minute when Kalidou koulibaly received a second yellow card, reducing Al-Hilal to 10 men.Despite a saved penalty by Frank Kessié in the 85th minute—denied brilliantly by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou—Al-Ahli maintained control.
In injury time, Firs Al-Buraikan slotted home a third goal to seal the win and spark celebrations among the home fans at the packed stadium.After the match, Al-Ahli’s head coach Mathias Jäsle praised his squad:
Al-Ahli will face the winner of the second semifinal between Al-Nassr and Kawasaki Frontalewhich is set for Wednesday. The final is scheduled for Saturdaywhere Al-Ahli will look to cap their dream run with silverware.