Three Points, One Sniper Moment: Al Ahli Jeddah Edges Al Sadd in Elite ACL Thrill

Match Recap

Al Ahli Jeddah beat Al Sadd 2-1 away in the AFC Champions League Elite, in a match played at Al Sadd’s stadium. The result on matchday four hands important points to the Saudi side as both teams chase a place in the knockout rounds.

Al Ahli controlled large portions of the game and found a late edge despite Al Sadd dominating possession at times. The hosts created several chances, but Al Ahli held firm and protected their slim lead late on.

Postmatch Reactions

Manager Matias Jaissle faced questions from fans after the final whistle but kept the focus on the points. He stressed that securing three points was the priority, regardless of how the game unfolded on the night.

Jaissle also explained that his plan included both high pressing and more measured phases, designed to disrupt the opponent and create opportunities rather than sitting back. The approach paid off as the team held on for the win.

A standout moment came when Matheus Gonçalves scored the second goal following a well-timed pass from Wenderson Galino. Gonçalves later received praise for his performance and his contribution in sealing the result for the visitors.

Gonçalves said the team must keep this momentum to win more fixtures and climb the group standings, while also noting the importance of discipline and collective effort in a demanding competition.

Team Form and Challenges

Al Ahli have faced an ongoing offensive struggle in recent league fixtures, with a modest return of goals and a tendency to concede as well. Through seven league matches this season, they have scored nine times and conceded five, a pattern that has contributed to several draws and a need for improvement in attack consistency.

On the other side, Al Sadd coach Sergio Allegri argued that luck did not favor his team and that the loss was undeserved. He praised the hard work of his players and suggested that better fortune could have changed the outcome, noting continued improvement as the matches progress.

Al Sadd currently sits tenth in the West Group after four rounds with two points. Four more fixtures remain in the Elite phase, against units like the Iranian Tractor and other regional sides, with hopes of a late surge to reach the knockout stage, where the top eight advance directly.

Akram Afif and a Balanced Attack

Al Sadd emphasise that they do not rely on a single star, despite Akram Afif delivering moments of quality during the match and being highlighted as a key performer from last season. Allegri stressed that Afif is one of several players the team leans on to share responsibility and create chances, a philosophy they hope to sustain in the coming games.

Afif contributed with a standout display, helping set up the scoring for the Sadd, although the team could not convert more opportunities to turn the tide in their favor.

In the wider context, Afif has been recognized as one of Asia’s top talents in recent seasons, underscoring the high level of competition in the Elite group and the expectations that accompany it.