Tunisia’s Issam Jebali fires Gamba Osaka into AFC Champions League final

Issam Jebali played a decisive role as Gamba Osaka booked their place in the AFC Champions League final, emerging as the first team to qualify from the East Zone.

The Japanese side produced a dominant performance to overturn their first-leg deficit, defeating Bangkok United 3-0 in the return leg after losing 1-0 away. The comeback sealed their progression in a convincing fashion.

Jebali was instrumental on the night, finding the net in the 39th minute to double his side’s advantage. His goal came after strikes from Ryoya Yamashita, who opened the scoring in the 19th minute, and was followed by a late effort from Ryotaro Meshino in the 82nd minute to complete the rout.

With their place in the final secured, Gamba Osaka now await their opponent from the West Zone. The remaining contenders include Al Nassr FC, Al Wasl FC, Al-Hussein SC, and Al Ahli SC.

The West Zone fixtures will see Al Nassr face Al Wasl at Zabeel Stadium in Dubai on April 19, while Al Ahli take on Al-Hussein Irbid on the same day. The semi-final clash for the West Zone is then scheduled for April 22 at the same venue, where the final opponent for Gamba Osaka will be decided.

As the competition approaches its climax, Gamba Osaka will be hoping Jebali can continue his fine form and lead them to continental glory.