Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié leads Al Ahli to stunning title defence

Franck Kessié delivered a decisive assist as Al Ahli retained the Asian Champions League title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Machida Zelvia.

The Ivorian midfielder once again played a central role in his team’s success, helping the Saudi club secure back-to-back continental titles after their breakthrough triumph the previous season.

The final, played on Saturday, proved far from straightforward, with Al Ahli forced to overcome adversity before sealing victory.

The match remained level at the end of regulation time, reflecting a tightly contested encounter against opponents described as the underdogs of the competition.

Despite expectations, Machida Zelvia proved resilient, limiting Al Ahli’s attacking opportunities and taking the game into extra time.

Malgré l’infériorité numérique, Al-Ahli ouvre le score face à Machida sur un centre au second poteau de Riyad Mahrez, mal contrôlé par Franck Kessié, qui profite à Firas Al-Buraikan et permet aux Ahlawi de prendre l’avantage dans cette finale 💚💫 pic.twitter.com/U7O3haIeZh

— Icosium FC (@IcosiumFC) April 25, 2026

Al Ahli’s challenge became even more complicated as the match progressed.

The team was reduced to 10 players in the 68th minute following the dismissal of Zakaria Al Hawsawi.

Matters worsened deep into stoppage time when Mohammed Abdulrahman was also sent off in the 90+5th minute, leaving the side with nine players for the closing stages.

Despite being at a numerical disadvantage, Al Ahli managed to find a decisive moment early in extra time.

In the 96th minute, Firas Al Buraikan scored the only goal of the match, finishing a move created by Kessié.

The midfielder’s assist proved to be the defining contribution in a final that demanded resilience as much as quality.

The goal ultimately secured a 1-0 victory, confirming Al Ahli as champions for the second consecutive year and marking their second title in the competition’s history.

The result underlined the team’s ability to perform under pressure, particularly in difficult circumstances.

Kessié’s influence throughout the campaign has been widely recognised.

BACK-TO-BACK ASIAN KINGS! 👑👑

The Continent remains GREEN 🌍💚#AlAhli | #ACLElite | #LetsGoWithAlAhli pic.twitter.com/4QxHFBqKrx

— Al-Ahli Saudi Club (@ALAHLI_FCEN) April 25, 2026

The 29-year-old has established himself as a key figure in the squad since joining from FC Barcelona in 2023, contributing both in midfield control and decisive moments.

His performances in this year’s tournament included three goals and one assist across 10 matches, highlighting his consistency and impact.

Those contributions were acknowledged with the award for Best Player of the Tournament, reflecting his role in guiding the team to success.

The final itself served as a summary of his importance.

Beyond the statistics, his involvement in the winning goal demonstrated his ability to deliver at crucial moments.

The assist to Al Buraikan came at a time when the team was under significant pressure, both physically and tactically.

Al Ahli’s triumph also adds another major honour to Kessié’s record since his move to Saudi Arabia.

This latest success represents his third significant trophy with the club, reinforcing his status as a central figure in their recent achievements.

The team’s journey to the title has been characterised by resilience and consistency.

Retaining the Champions League trophy required navigating a demanding competition, culminating in a final that tested both discipline and determination.

For Al Ahli, the victory consolidates their position among the leading clubs in Asian football.

Winning the title for a second consecutive season highlights their ability to maintain high performance levels across campaigns.

Kessié’s role within that success story continues to stand out.

His presence in midfield provides both stability and creativity, allowing the team to balance defensive responsibilities with attacking intent.

As the season approaches its conclusion, attention may turn to the midfielder’s future.

His contract is set to expire at the end of the current campaign, raising the possibility of a departure.

If he were to leave, this victory would represent a significant moment to conclude his time at the club.

The achievement adds to his individual record while also contributing to the team’s history.

Beyond club football, the timing of this success could also have implications for the international stage.

✨ 𝗠𝗩𝗣 ✨

Big moments, big performances.

Franck Kessie is your 2025/26 #ACLElite Most Valuable Player!#ACLEliteFinal pic.twitter.com/9rT3ibR3W2

— #ACLElite | #ACLTwo (@TheAFCCL) April 25, 2026

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, performances at club level often play a role in shaping preparation and confidence.

Kessié’s display in the final, combined with his overall campaign, reinforces his standing as an experienced player capable of influencing major matches.

The recognition as the tournament’s best player further underlines that status.

For Al Ahli, the focus remains on celebrating a hard-fought victory.

Winning under challenging circumstances, particularly with two players sent off, highlights the team’s determination.

The final outcome reflects a combination of tactical discipline and individual quality, with Kessié’s contribution proving decisive.

His assist ensured that the team’s efforts were rewarded, securing another chapter in their recent success.