Daijiworld Media Network – Jeddah

Jeddah, Apr 26: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli successfully defended their AFC Champions League Elite crown with a 1-0 victory over Japan’s Machida Zelvia in the final played at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.

The closely contested match remained goalless in regulation time before being decided in extra time. Saudi international striker Firas Al-Buraikan scored the decisive goal in the sixth minute of extra time to seal the title for Al-Ahli.

The breakthrough came after midfielder Franck Kessie set up Al-Buraikan, who struck from close range to find the back of the net.

With this win, Al-Ahli became the first team to secure back-to-back Asian titles since their city rivals Al-Ittihad achieved the feat in 2005.

Machida Zelvia, appearing in their first final, put up a strong fight but fell short against the defending champions.

The victory further cements Al-Ahli’s dominance in Asian club football.