Sports 26 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Al-Ahli Claims Back-to-Back Asian Champions League Elite Titles Despite Red Card
Saudi side Al-Ahli secured their second consecutive Asian Champions League Elite title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Japan's Machida Zelvia, becoming only the second team to retain the trophy after playing with 10 men following Zakaria Hawsawi's red card. Substitute Feras Al-Brikan scored the decisive goal from a Riyad Mahrez cross. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/al-ahli-wins-back-to-back-asian-champions-league-titles-5436668
Al-Ahli triumphed 1-0 over Machida Zelvia in the Asian Champions League Elite final at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, clinching back-to-back titles on Saturday. Managed by Matthias Jaissle, the Saudi Pro League team joined Al-Ittihad as only the second side to defend the trophy in the competition’s history.
The match turned tense in the 68th minute when defender Zakaria Hawsawi received a straight red card for headbutting Machida’s Tete Yengi. Despite being down to 10 men, Al-Ahli held firm through regular time, forcing extra time amid a crowd of nearly 59,000 fans.
Early chances favored the champions: Galeno tested Machida keeper Kosei Tani in the 13th minute, while Merih Demiral struck the crossbar just before halftime. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy proved crucial later, denying Hiroyuki Mae and Yuki Soma to keep the score level.
In extra time, Riyad Mahrez delivered a precise left-footed cross from the right, which Franck Kessie nodded down for substitute Feras Al-Brikan to tap in from close range. ‘Ten against 11 is nearly impossible, but we stuck together and fought,’ Mahrez commented post-match.
The Jeddah-hosted finals showcased Al-Ahli’s resilience in retaining their crown.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)