Al Ahli cruised into the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League with a dominant 3-0 victory over Thai side Buriram United, propelled by a scintillating performance from Riyad Mahrez.
The match, played as a single-legged quarter-final, saw Al Ahli make a blistering start, taking the lead just four minutes into the game.
A well-timed pass from Roberto Firmino found Mahrez inside the box, and the Algerian international made no mistake, finishing with a precise cross-shot past Buriram’s goalkeeper for his ninth goal of the season.
Al Ahli’s early dominance continued as the home side added two more goals before the half-time break. Just two minutes after Mahrez’s opener, Brazilian forward Galeno made it 2-0 with a cool finish, while Firmino turned from provider to scorer in the 30th minute, finding the net himself to give his side a commanding 3-0 lead.
The goals were a testament to Al Ahli’s attacking fluidity, with Firmino, Mahrez, and Galeno combining effortlessly to dismantle Buriram’s defence.
Despite Buriram’s efforts to mount a comeback, they were unable to break down the resolute Al Ahli backline, and the match ended with the hosts comfortably securing their spot in the next round.
With this victory, Al Ahli now set their sights on their semi-final clash against Saudi rivals Al Hilal, scheduled to take place in just three days in Jeddah. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both sides vie for a place in the final of Asia’s premier club competition.
For Mahrez, the goal against Buriram added to his impressive tally this season, further cementing his reputation as one of the tournament’s standout players.
Al Ahli’s attacking prowess will undoubtedly be crucial in the upcoming semi-final, as they look to continue their pursuit of AFC Champions League glory.
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#الأهلي_بوريرام pic.twitter.com/WH0NejLp0p— النخبة مع الشبكة (@alnkhbt27284) April 26, 2025
