In an electrifying showdown, United Arab Emirates' Al-Ain clinched their spot in the AFC Champions League final, even after a nail-biting 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal on Tuesday! ⚽🔥
Despite the defeat, Al-Ain's aggregate score of 5-4 propelled them forward, setting the stage for an epic final. They're now eagerly awaiting the winner of the other semi-final on Wednesday between South Korea's Ulsan Hyundai and Japan's Yokohama F Marinos, with Ulsan leading 1-0. 🏆
Al-Hilal came out swinging, with goals from Ruben Neves and Salem Al-Dawsari giving them the win in the second leg. But it wasn't enough to overturn their previous 2-4 loss. Talk about a rollercoaster! 🎢
The crowd went wild as Al-Hilal, cheered on by injured superstar Neymar from the stands, made a blazing start. In just the fourth minute, a rash challenge led to a penalty, and Neves slammed it into the top corner. 🎯
But Al-Ain didn't back down! Erik Jorgens connected with Yahia Nader to level the playing field, with Jorgens slotting the ball home from 14 yards. Game on! 🙌
The intensity ramped up as Al-Hilal's Ahmed Barman nearly scored an own goal, and in the second half, Al-Dawsari found the net again, tightening the scoreline. 😱
Al-Hilal pushed hard, but Al-Ain's goalkeeper Khalid Eisa held firm, making crucial saves as time ticked away. ⏰
With this victory, Al-Ain returns to the final for the first time since 2016! They're on a mission to claim the title they narrowly missed against South Korea's Jeonbuk Motors back then. 🏅
The first leg of the final kicks off on May 11 in either Japan or South Korea, with Al-Ain hosting the return two weeks later. Mark your calendars! 📅
Reference(s):
Al-Ain reach Asian Champions League final despite loss at Al-Hilal
cgtn.com
