AFC Champions League: African trio helps Al Ahli successfully defend title

Al Ahli Saudi Club complete a successful continental title defense on Saturday after defeating Japanese club Machid Zelvia 1-0 after extra-time in the final of the AFC Champions League Elite.

✨ 𝗙𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗹 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗮𝗻 ✨

Iconic player. Unforgettable moments. Immortalised forever!#ACLEliteFinal | #AHLvMAC pic.twitter.com/JLlCfXA6As

— #ACLElite | #ACLTwo (@TheAFCCL) April 25, 2026

Mahrez and Kessié involved in crucial AFC Champions League winner

Despite a second half red card, 10-man Al Ahli overcame the visitors at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah with African stars Riyad Mahrez and Franck Kessié involved in the decisive moment.

Algeria national team magician Mahrez provided a flawless cross to the far post from the right wing in the 96th minute to find Kessié. The ball bounced off the thigh of the Ivorian to Firas Al Buraikan, who made no mistake from close range to provide the decisive goal.

The result was in serious doubt for the hosts after Zakaria Al Hawsawi was issued a red card in the 68th minute. After holding out against a siege from the hosts for the opening hour, Machida Zelvia began to look more dangerous in the final half hour.

But the high-priced Al Ahli team was simply too much in the end and had the quality to find the crucial goal despite their numerical disadvantage. Despite failing to capture the Saudi Pro League at home last season as well as this season, they have shown their quality in continental competition.

BACK-TO-BACK ASIAN KINGS! 👑👑

The Continent remains GREEN 🌍💚#AlAhli | #ACLElite | #LetsGoWithAlAhli pic.twitter.com/4QxHFBqKrx

— Al-Ahli Saudi Club (@ALAHLI_FCEN) April 25, 2026

Now the club will turn their attention to domestic matters, even if a Saudi Pro League title looks unlikely. They are ten points behind leaders Al Nassr with six fixtures remaining, but second place is fully within reach with only two points separating them from Al Hilal.

Next up is a fierce test away at Al Nassr in league action on Wednesday.