Riyad Mahrez played a pivotal role in Al-Ahli’s progression in the Asian Champions League, delivering a standout performance against Qatar’s Al-Rayyan.
The Algerian winger found the net twice in the return leg, adding to his goal from the first match to help secure a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory for the Saudi club.
Alongside him, Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié anchored the team’s midfield, while Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was sidelined due to injury.
Mané Through with Al-Nassr but Remains Quiet
Sadio Mané’s Al-Nassr booked their place in the next round with a 3-0 aggregate victory over Iranian side Esteghlal.
However, the Senegalese forward did not get on the scoresheet, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Jhon Durán stepping up to seal the win.
Despite his lack of goals, Mané’s presence was instrumental in maintaining Al-Nassr’s attacking threat throughout the tie.
Bounou’s Al-Hilal Dominate with Ease
Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou helped Al-Hilal breeze past Uzbekistan’s Pakhator Tashkent, securing a 4-0 aggregate win.
After enduring a challenging period in recent weeks, Bounou delivered a solid display, keeping a clean sheet across both legs as Al-Hilal comfortably progressed.
Ounas and Atal Shine for Al-Sadd
Qatari side Al-Sadd cruised past UAE’s Al-Wasl with a 4-2 aggregate victory, thanks in part to impressive performances from Adam Ounas and Youcef Atal.
The Algerian winger Ounas found the net in the first leg before sustaining an injury in the return fixture, while Atal contributed with a goal in the second leg.
Meanwhile, Malian midfielder Mohamed Camara controlled proceedings in the center of the pitch, ensuring Al-Sadd’s dominance.
However, the team will be without Moroccan defender Romain Saïss, who suffered a serious injury and is unlikely to feature in the latter stages of the competition.
Rahimi’s Title Defense Ends in Disappointment
Soufiane Rahimi and Al-Ain suffered a major setback, crashing out in the group stage despite being the reigning champions.
The Moroccan forward and his teammates failed to mount a successful defense of their title, marking an early exit from the tournament.
With the quarter-final draw set for Friday and the final phase scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia, the home teams are expected to benefit from the familiar conditions.
The next stage of the competition is set to resume in April, with the remaining clubs vying for continental glory.
