In a thrilling semifinal clash, Al-Ahli Jeddah secured their spot in the AFC Champions League Elite final after defeating rivals Al-Hilal 3-1 at the radiant Jewel Stadium on Tuesday.
Al-Ahli took an early lead with two first-half goals from Roberto Firmino (9’) and Ivan Toney (27’), putting them in a commanding position. However, Al-Hilal fought back before halftime as Salem Al-Dawsari reduced the deficit in the 42nd minute.
The second half saw Al-Ahli extend their lead when Firas Al-Buraikan scored in the 97th minute, sealing the victory. The home side could have added more, but two goals from Toney (49’, 55’) were disallowed by VAR for offside.
Al-Hilal’s struggles worsened when defender Kalidou Koulibaly received a second yellow card in the 59th minute, forcing his team to play with ten men. The Riyadh-based club also missed a chance to close the gap when Yassine Bounou saved a penalty from Franck Kessié in the 86th minute.
This victory sends Al-Ahli to their third-ever AFC Champions League final, having previously reached the title match in 1986 and 2012. They will now aim to lift the trophy for the first time in their history.
Meanwhile, four-time champions Al-Hilal, who last won the tournament in 2021, fell short of reaching their tenth final.
Final Showdown Ahead
Al-Ahli will face the winner of the other semifinal between Saudi rivals Al-Nassr and Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale, set to take place on Wednesday. The grand finale is scheduled for May 3, where Al-Ahli will look to make history in Asian football.
Al-Ahli Jeddah Advances to AFC Champions League Elite Final After Thrilling 3-1 Win Over Al-Hilal
