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Artillery On Parade: Jaissle's Heavy Hitters Fire Up Al Ahli Jeddah for Wehda Clash

9 February 2026

Artillery On Parade: Jaissle's Heavy Hitters Fire Up Al Ahli Jeddah for Wehda Clash
Jaissle stacks his artillery as Al Ahli Jeddah prepare for a heavyweight AFC Elite clash against Al Wehda.

Starting lineup for Al Ahli vs Al Wehda

German coach Matthias Jaissle names a potent XI as Al Ahli Jeddah face UAE's Al Wehda in the AFC Elite Champions League on Monday.

The match is largely a formality, with both sides already qualified for the knockout rounds alongside Tractor S.C. and Al Hilal.

Al Ahli sit third in the West Asia group with 13 points, level with Wehda but ahead on goal difference.

Jaissle had said he would rest regulars, but he surprised everyone by fielding a strong starting lineup.

Goalkeeper: Edward Mendy.

Defence: Ali Majrashi - Ryan Hamid - Rogier Ibanez - Matteo Dams.

Midfield: Valentin Atangana - Ziad Al Jehni - Franck Kessi.

Attack: Gonzalves - Riyad Mahrez - Ivan Toni.

Punchline: If this plan scores, the bench will need a standing ovation — and maybe a lighter bench for the jokes.

Punchline: Jaissle's squad is so loaded that even the scoreboard blushes; best keep the goalposts polished.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which teams are playing in this AFC Elite clash?

Al Ahli Jeddah vs Al Wehda from the United Arab Emirates, in the AFC Elite Champions League.

Who is the coach for Al Ahli Jeddah?

Matthias Jaissle.

Did Jaissle rest players or field the strong lineup?

Although he hinted at resting regulars, he fielded a strong starting XI.

Who are the players named in the starting XI?

Goalkeeper Edward Mendy; defense Ali Majrashi, Ryan Hamid, Rogier Ibanez, Matteo Dams; midfield Valentin Atangana, Ziad Al Jehni, Franck Kessi; attack Gonzalves, Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toni.