Al-Ahli are on the brink of history, as the Jeddah giants are gearing up for the AFC Champions League Elite final showdown against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale, at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Saturday, seeking to clinch their first-ever Asian trophy.
The Saudi side, twice runners-up, return to the AFC Champions League final for the first time since their 2012 loss to Ulsan Hyundai.
Under German coach Matthias Jaissle, Al-Ahli transformed from 2021 relegation battlers to continental contenders, with their unbeaten run this season highlighting their resurgence.
Saudi Powerhouse Meets Japanese Resilience
This final marks the sixth Saudi-Japanese clash in AFC Champions League history. Al-Ahli stormed into the final by defeating rivals Al Hilal 3-1 in the semifinals, thanks to goals from attacking trio Firmino, Toney, and Al-Buraikan, though Kessié missed a penalty.
The Jeddah club boasts a five-game winning streak, netting 16 goals. They scored twice in 19 of their last 20 matches, with their 17-game unbeaten Champions League run makes them favorites.
Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney, and Roberto Firmino headline Al-Ahli’s lethal attack. Midfielder Gabri Veiga also shines with seven goals and five assists.
Mahrez pledged maximum effort, stating, “We’ll fight for every minute, every second, to lift the trophy.” The Algerian star embraced fan support, calling it motivation for victory.
Kawasaki Frontale’s Underdog Ambitions
Despite sitting eighth in J-League 2025, Kawasaki Frontale dazzled in Asia. Coach Shigetoshi Hasebe’s squad stunned Al-Nassr 3-2 in the semifinals, ousting Cristiano Ronaldo and co.’s side.
The Japanese team overturned a first-leg deficit against Shanghai Shenhua with a 4-0 rout. They scored 22 goals in their last eight Champions League matches, winning twice with under 35% possession.
Al-Ahli’s firepower clashes with Kawasaki’s tactical discipline. Will Saudi Arabia celebrate a long-awaited Asian crown, or will Japan script a historic upset? Tune in Saturday for a thrilling duel!
