Shabab Al Ahli held their nerve in a dramatic encounter to defeat Buriram United 3-2 after extra time in the Quarter-Final round at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium, Jeddah, booking their place in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 semi-finals.
In a match packed with momentum swings, Paulo Sousa’s side saw a commanding lead slip before finding a decisive breakthrough in extra time to keep their continental dream alive.
Shabab Al Ahli struck first in the 13th minute through an unusual sequence, as Igor Gomes’ header from Federico Cartabia’s corner rebounded off the post and deflected into the net via Peter Zulj.
The UAE side doubled their advantage early in the second half when Saeid Ezatolahi powered home from close range following a flick-on by Renan Victor, putting them firmly in control at 2-0.
Refusing to back down, Buriram clawed their way back into the contest. A penalty converted by Guilherme Bissoli in the 64th minute — after a handball by Ezatolahi — sparked belief for the Thai champions.
Just six minutes later, Zulj redeemed his earlier misfortune with a composed finish from the edge of the box, leveling the score at 2-2 and forcing the game into extra time.
Goalkeeper Neil Etheridge also played a crucial role, making key saves to keep Buriram in the tie during regulation time.
With tension at its peak, Shabab Al Ahli found their winner just three minutes into extra time.
A recycled set-piece saw the ball fall kindly to Renan Victor, who slipped behind the defensive line to calmly finish from close range — sealing a dramatic victory.
Buriram’s hopes faded further when Ko Myeong-seok was sent off late on, leaving the Thai side with 10 men in the closing stages.
The win sets up a high-stakes semi-final showdown against Japan’s Machida Zelvia, who earlier stunned Al Ittihad.
Credit Photo : AFC
