In an electrifying finale to the AFC Champions League Elite's league stage, Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli clinched the top spot in the West Zone with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Qatar's Al Gharafa! 🌟⚽️
The match kicked off with drama as Matteo Dams was booked for a handball in the box just four minutes in. The penalty was converted by former Real Madrid star Joselu, giving Al Gharafa an early 1-0 lead.
But Al Ahli wasn't backing down! A slick long ball found Riyad Mahrez, who danced past the offside trap and set up Ivan Toney to equalize. Moments later, Roberto Firmino sliding in with a stunning strike put Al Ahli ahead 2-1.
The excitement didn't stop there. An error by Al Gharafa's goalkeeper allowed Galeno to score Al Ahli's third goal, polarizing the match further. Just before halftime, Al Ahli secured their dominance with another penalty converted by Mahrez, making it 4-1.
Al Gharafa tried to rally back with Yacine Brahimi scoring in the 80th minute, but it was only a consolation as their continental dreams were dashed. With this win, Al Ahli now sits three points clear of Saudi rivals Al Hilal, who are set to face UAE's Al Wasl on Tuesday night. 🔥🏆
Reference(s):
Al Ahli rise to top of West Zone, edge Al Gharafa out in ACL Elite
cgtn.com
