Al Ahli defeats Al Hilal 3-1, advances to AFC Champions League final

Al Ahli advanced to the AFC Champions League Elite final with a 3-1 victory over Al Hilal in Jeddah, overcoming their Saudi rivals in front of over 50,000 fans. Early goals from Roberto Firmino and Ivan Toney gave Al Ahli a strong start, while Salem Al-Dawsari pulled one back for Al Hilal before halftime. Al Hilal's hopes diminished when defender Kalidou Koulibaly received a second yellow card, reducing them to 10 men for the final half hour. Despite a late penalty save by Al Hilal's goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Feras Al-Buraikan scored in stoppage time to secure the win for Al Ahli. The victory marks Al Ahli's first appearance in the final since 2012, where they will face either Al Nassr or Japan's Kawasaki Frontale. Coaches from both sides acknowledged Al Ahli's superiority on the night, highlighting the team's unity and determination.