On an evening to be etched in the memory of club and continent, African trio Edouard Mendy, Franck Kessie, and Riyad Mahrez etched their place in Asian football history as they led Al-Ahli Saudi Club to their inaugural AFC Champions League title.
The Saudi giants defeated Kawasaki Frontale of Japan 2-0 in the final comfortably, ending a thrilling campaign on a victory of silverware and continental dominance.
The final, which was attended by a packed stadium, was controlled by Al-Ahli from the beginning.
Mendy was unbeatable between the posts, showing the same commanding presence that made him a European champion at Chelsea.
The Senegal keeper was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Kessie was the dynamo in midfield, rounding off an excellent performance with Al-Ahli’s second goal, a clinical striker that sealed victory and had fans in a frenzy of celebration.
In the meantime, Mahrez, who has impressed throughout the tournament with his creativity and accuracy, was second top scorer with 9 goals and 8 assists.
The performances of the Algerian winger have been at the heart of Al-Ahli’s triumph and confirmed his consistent class and leadership.
This win marks a new chapter for Al-Ahli and demonstrates the growing dominance of African talent on the global scene.
African football can hold its head high as three of Africa’s finest chart the continent towards greatness.
