Franck Kessié, Riyad Mahrez, and Édouard Mendy lifted the AFC Champions League title on Saturday after guiding Al-Ahli to a commanding 2-0 win over Kawasaki Frontale in the final held at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.
The African trio played a decisive role in the Saudi club’s historic victory, which capped off their debut campaign in Asia’s premier club competition.
Kawasaki Frontale, the Japanese side that stunned Sadio Mané’s Al-Nassr in the semi-finals earlier in the week, were unable to replicate that performance against a resolute Al-Ahli.
The match saw Al-Ahli take control after a cautious opening period. The deadlock was broken in the 35th minute by Brazilian winger Galeno, who calmly slotted the ball home to give the hosts a deserved lead. The momentum continued in Al-Ahli’s favour as they pushed for a second goal before the break.
Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié doubled the advantage in the 42nd minute, rising highest in the box to head home a precise cross from Roberto Firmino.
The goal, a product of excellent build-up play, underlined the composure and aerial prowess of the former AC Milan and Barcelona player, who now counts 81 international caps and 11 goals for Ivory Coast.
Despite not getting on the scoresheet, Algerian international Riyad Mahrez made his presence felt throughout the encounter. The winger, renowned for his creativity and finesse, orchestrated numerous attacking moves for Al-Ahli.
His vision and ability to unlock defences kept the Japanese side on the back foot and earned him praise from both teammates and fans inside the packed stadium.
At the opposite end of the pitch, Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy stood firm between the posts, denying Kawasaki Frontale any opportunity to claw their way back into the contest.
Mendy, a former UEFA Champions League winner with Chelsea, demonstrated his trademark calm under pressure, pulling off several crucial interventions during rare forays from the Japanese side.
This AFC Champions League triumph marks the first Asian title for all three African stars, each of whom made their tournament debut this season.
The victory also reinforces their pedigree, adding another accolade to their already distinguished careers.
In winning the title, Kessié, Mahrez, and Mendy follow in the footsteps of Moroccan international Soufiane Rahimi, who claimed last year’s crown with Al Ain.
Like this year’s final, the 2024 edition also saw a Japanese club fall at the final hurdle, as Rahimi’s Al Ain overcame Yokohama F. Marinos.
The win not only cements Al-Ahli’s place among Asia’s elite clubs but also underscores the growing impact of African talent in the AFC Champions League.
With Mahrez’s flair, Kessié’s power, and Mendy’s stability, the trio played pivotal roles in a campaign that will be remembered for its balance of skill, determination, and collective excellence.
As the confetti settled in Jeddah, it was clear that Africa’s influence in global football continues to grow—this time, on Asian soil.
Kessié buteur en finale de LDC asiatique contre l’équipe qui a éliminer facilement Ronaldo
Il aura un trophée majeur en Asie avant Penaldo
Content pour lui 🫡 pic.twitter.com/btZoLWhoCh— Loguito Fcb (@Loguito6) May 3, 2025
