Al Ahli Saudi etched their name into Asian football history, successfully defending their continental crown with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Machida Zelvia in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 Final at King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah.
Backed by a roaring crowd of nearly 59,000 at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Al Ahli dominated the early exchanges.
Efforts from Roger Ibanez and Galeno signaled intent, while Ivan Toney was denied by a crucial defensive intervention from Machida.
The Japanese side, however, remained composed. Hotaka Nakamura had an early opportunity, but his header was comfortably gathered by Edouard Mendy.
Despite Al Ahli’s dominance, Machida’s disciplined defensive structure frustrated the hosts.
Goalkeeper Kosei Tani produced key saves, while defenders including Daihachi Okamura held firm under relentless pressure.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 68th minute when Zakaria Hawsawi was sent off after an off-the-ball incident involving Tete Yengi.
Reduced to 10 men, Al Ahli were forced into a defensive battle as Machida seized momentum.
Hiroyuki Mae and Yuki Soma came close, but Mendy stood tall, producing crucial saves to keep the game level.
With the match deadlocked after 90 minutes, extra time was needed to separate the sides.
The decisive moment arrived in the 96th minute. Riyad Mahrez cut inside from the right and delivered a precise cross, which was intelligently laid off by Franck Kessie into the path of Al Brikan.
The Saudi forward made no mistake—firing home from close range to ignite wild celebrations.
Machida pushed for a late equalizer, with Henry Mochizuki going close, but Al Ahli held firm to secure victory.
The triumph makes Al Ahli the first club since Al Ittihad Club in 2005 to successfully defend an AFC Champions League title—cementing their dominance in Asian football.
Credit Photo : AFC
