Al-Ahli Jeddah has taken a significant step toward advancing to the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League after triumphing over Al-Rayyan of Qatar with a score of 3-1 during the first leg of the Round of 16. The match was hosted at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium on March 4, 2025, with Al-Ahli showcasing their dominance throughout the contest.
Al-Ahli entered the clash following impressive performances during the group stages, finishing second with 22 points, just behind their compatriots Al-Hilal. On the contrary, Al-Rayyan struggled, managing only 8 points which placed them seventh in their group, highlighting the evident gap between the two teams.
The staging of this knockout round match drew significant attention, as fans were eager to see if Al-Rayyan could leverage home advantage to level the playing field. Unfortunately for the host team, Al-Ahli came out firing, led by the talents of their star players.
Just after the half-hour mark, the Brazilian winger Galeno opened the scoring for Al-Ahli, marking the beginning of what would be a challenging night for Al-Rayyan. His goal came after receiving a deft assist from Roberto Firmino, ensuring the visitors took the lead with 1-0.
Four minutes later, Algerian superstar Riyad Mahrez struck, doubling the visitors' advantage to 2-0 shortly before halftime. This two-goal lead was not just reflective of the scoreline but also demonstrated Al-Ahli’s control over the match. The first half concluded with them comfortably leading.
Throughout the match, Al-Rayyan attempted to mount some resistance but struggled to find their footing. The beginning of the second half saw them trying to push forward; yet, Al-Ahli's defense remained resolute.
Nevertheless, things took a turn when Roger Guedes managed to pull one back for Al-Rayyan with his well-executed shot from outside the box, narrowing the score to 2-1 about twenty minutes from the end. This goal injected some renewed energy and motivation within the home side, prompting them to seek more opportunities.
Despite Al-Rayyan’s efforts to equalize, including numerous attempts to capitalize on the slight momentum shift, Al-Ahli’s defense stood firm. There was even a missed opportunity for Al-Ahli when Firmino’s shot was cleared off the line shortly thereafter. His frustration was palpable as he attempted to reclaim his composure.
Just as the match seemed to be within reach for Al-Rayyan, Al-Ahli’s Firas Al-Buraikan struck the final blow, scoring the third and decisive goal deep in stoppage time. His efficient finish came from another brilliant setup, concluding the match with Al-Ahli securing a 3-1 victory.
The two teams are set to clash again on March 11, 2025, for the return leg at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah. Al-Ahli enters the second phase with significant confidence, riding high on their performance and historical precedent, having won all previous three encounters between the two teams.
This match highlighted the strategic measures and abilities of both coaches, with Al-Ahli’s Matthias Jaissle expressing satisfaction with his team's performance, emphasizing the difference between knockout games and the earlier group-stage matches. He remarked, "The nature of knockout rounds brings different challenges, but our players are well-prepared.”
Meanwhile, Al-Rayyan’s coach Arthur Jorge acknowledged the need for improvement, asserting, "We are determined to accomplish something positive and overturn our fortunes from the last match against Al-Ahli.” His team will have the opportunity to do just this when they face off again for another high-stakes match.
Ahead of the rematch, fans also look forward to the broadcast of the match, with channels like SSC Extra 1 HD, beIN SPORTS AFC, and Abu Dhabi Sports Asia all set to deliver live coverage.
Al-Ahli fans are hopeful for their team’s continued success as they aspire to advance to the next knockout stage, supported by their proficient lineup led by the likes of Firmino, Mahrez, and Galeno.
For Al-Rayyan, who once featured star player Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet, the upcoming encounters will be pivotal not only for their chances of advancing but also to rebuild confidence after the recent setback.
With the match generating excitement across Asia, both institutions will look to execute flawless performances and answer critics with bold and effective displays as they compete on continental grounds.
Al-Ahli's historic success and invigorated roster poised them favorably for the upcoming match, making it one to watch as they aim for glory within the prestigious league.