JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia - In a historic showdown at the King Abdullah Sports City, Al Ahli clinched their first-ever AFC Champions League title, defeating Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 on May 3, 2025. Goals from Galeno and Franck Kessié propelled the Saudi club to victory, marking a significant milestone in their football history.
The match, which kicked off at 5:30 PM local time, saw Al Ahli dominate proceedings against their Japanese opponents. Galeno opened the scoring in the 35th minute with a right-footed shot from inside the box, giving the home crowd a reason to celebrate. Just seven minutes later, Kessié doubled the lead, heading in a cross from Roberto Firmino, effectively sealing the fate of the match.
Al Ahli's path to the final was paved with determination and skill. They had previously dispatched Al Hilal 3-1 in the semifinals, showcasing their attacking prowess and solidifying their reputation as a formidable force in Asian football. The victory over Kawasaki Frontale not only earned them the continental crown but also secured a spot in the 2029 Club World Cup, a prestigious tournament that will put them on the global stage.
Head coach Matthias Jaissle expressed his pride in the team's performance, stating, "We’ve worked hard for this moment, and the players delivered when it mattered most. Winning this title is a testament to our growth and ambition as a club." The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with fans creating a vibrant backdrop, cheering their team on as they made history.
Despite the financial disparity between the two clubs, with Al Ahli's squad valued at approximately €169.93 million compared to Kawasaki's €15.28 million, the game was fiercely contested. Kawasaki Frontale's coach, Shigetoshi Hasebe, acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic, saying, "Football is played on the pitch, not in the bank. We will give our all to compete against this talented squad." His team had previously stunned Al Nassr, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, in the semifinals, setting the stage for a thrilling final.
As the match progressed, Al Ahli maintained control, with goalkeeper Édouard Mendy making crucial saves to keep a clean sheet. The defense, led by Roger Ibañez and Merih Demiral, effectively neutralized Kawasaki's attempts to penetrate their backline. Al Ahli's tactical discipline and pressing game frustrated their opponents, who struggled to create clear chances.
The final whistle confirmed Al Ahli's victory, and the players were engulfed in a wave of jubilation. Galeno, who scored the opening goal, reflected on the significance of the win: "This is a dream come true for all of us. We have worked tirelessly, and to finally lift this trophy is an incredible feeling." Kessié echoed his teammate's sentiments, adding, "We showed our quality today, and this victory is just the beginning for us as a club. We aim to achieve even more in the future."
With this triumph, Al Ahli joins an elite group of clubs that have claimed the AFC Champions League title, becoming the 25th team to do so since the tournament's inception. The last time a new champion was crowned was in 2018 when Kashima Antlers lifted the trophy. The win also serves as a significant boost for Saudi Arabian football, which has invested heavily in its league and clubs, aiming to elevate their status on the international stage.
Looking ahead, Al Ahli will now focus on preparing for the Club World Cup, where they will compete against the best teams from around the globe. The club's management is optimistic about building on this success and further establishing themselves as a powerhouse in Asian football.
As the celebrations continue, fans and players alike are left to reflect on a momentous occasion that will surely be etched in the annals of the club's history. Al Ahli's journey from relegation just a few seasons ago to continental champions is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the unyielding spirit of football.
The future looks bright for Al Ahli, and as they bask in the glory of their first AFC Champions League title, one thing is clear: they are ready to take on the world.
