Al-Ahli Defeats Al-Hilal 3–1 to Reach AFC Champions League Elite Final

Photography: Courtesy of SPA

Jeddah, April 30, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Al-Ahli Saudi FC secured its place in the AFC Champions League Elite final following a high-intensity 3–1 victory over long-standing rivals Al-Hilal on Monday evening at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. The match drew a crowd of more than 50,000 spectators in a display of fervent domestic support.

Al-Ahli opened the scoring early, with Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino finding the net in the 9th minute. Momentum continued in Al-Ahli’s favor when Ivan Toney doubled the lead in the 27th minute, delivering a composed finish that put significant pressure on the opposition.

Al-Hilal responded before halftime with a goal from Salem Al-Dawsari in the 42nd minute, narrowing the deficit and reigniting the contest.

The second half began with a critical turning point for Al-Hilal, as defender Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, reducing his team to ten men. Despite sustained pressure, Al-Hilal was unable to find an equalizer.

In the seventh minute of stoppage time, Al-Ahli forward Feras Al-Buraikan delivered a decisive blow, scoring the third goal to secure victory and eliminate any chance of a comeback for the visitors.

The win propels Al-Ahli to the final of the inaugural AFC Champions League Elite competition, where they will meet the winner of the upcoming semifinal between Al-Nassr and Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. The final will also be held at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.