Al Ahli Defy Two Red Cards to Sink Machida Zelvia in Extra-Time Thriller; Jeddah Giants Become First Back-to-Back Champions in 21 Years

Al Ahli has etched its name into the history books as the dominant force in Asian football after defeating Machida Zelvia 1–0 to retain the AFC Champions League Elite title. In a high-stakes final held in Jeddah, the defending champions overcame severe disciplinary setbacks and a resilient Japanese defense to become the first team in over two decades to secure back-to-back continental trophies.

The match, played in front of a capacity crowd of 60,000, remained a stalemate throughout regulation time as both sides struggled to find a breakthrough. Al Ahli dominated early proceedings, with Merih Demiral striking the woodwork and Brazilian winger Galeno seeing a clear-cut chance saved by Kosei Tani. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second half when Al Ahli was reduced to 10 men following the dismissal of Zakaria Hawsawi for violent conduct. The tension escalated further just before the end of 90 minutes when Mohammed Abdulrahman also received his marching orders, leaving the hosts to navigate the closing stages under immense pressure.

The deadlock was finally broken in the first half of extra time. Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessie combined with Riyad Mahrez, whose pinpoint delivery allowed Feras Al-Brikan to sweep the ball past the Machida goalkeeper. The goal sparked scenes of jubilation across the stadium, rewarding the persistence of a side that had fought with a numerical disadvantage for nearly an hour.

Machida Zelvia, the continental debutants who had not conceded a single goal in the knockout stages leading up to the final, threw everything forward in the final 15 minutes. Despite several late scares, including a low effort from Yuki Soma, Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy remained unbeatable, preserving the clean sheet and the championship.

Riyad Mahrez, reflecting on the victory, praised the mental fortitude of his teammates. “It was an incredibly difficult night, especially after the red cards, but we found the energy to fight for each other,” Mahrez said. This victory marks a pinnacle for the Saudi club, which now turns its attention to global competition, having solidified its status as the undisputed heavyweight of the Asian game.