Three champions of the Premier League successfully achieve an exceptional feat, combining two distinctive titles in a remarkable fashion.
Football's Elite Triple Threat: Firmino, Mendy, Mahrez Conquer Europe and Asia
In an unforgettable football night, Al-Ahli thrashed Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 to clinch the AFC Champions League. The winning goals, scored by Galeno and an impressive strike from Franck Kessie, set the stage for a historic moment. Three stars of the game, Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino, became the only players to have obtained both the UEFA Champions League and the AFC Champions League titles.
Mendy claimed the UEFA trophy with Chelsea in a tense 2021 final against Man City (1-0). Mahrez bagged the same accolade in the following year with a decisive 1-0 victory over Inter Milan. Firmino contributed significantly to Liverpool's triumph over Tottenham in the UEFA Champions League final of 2019, by scoring twice and claiming the Player of the Tournament award, with six goals and seven assists across his 12 appearances.
In his victory speech, Firmino expressed his pride at this remarkable achievement. "I am thrilled and proud of the team," he said. "This win signifies making history for Al-Ahli. We embodied the "monster mentality," consequently earning the title as champions."
Football Headlines
### Brendan Rodgers linked with Leicester City exit, Celtic rumors swirl### Allegri set for shock return as Al-Ahli weigh management optionWith Firmino leading Al-Ahli to victory, he channeled the same spirit instilled by his former manager, Jurgen Klopp.
The Al-Ahli captain stated, "It's not easy becoming champions. We battled through every game, embracing the "monster mentality." When you have the courage to win every game, you inevitably become champions."
As for the game itself, Mahrez expressed his enthusiasm over playing "in a match like this." Mahrez's words echoed the entire team's contentment as they made history by winning the AFC Champions League for the first time.
"This victory represents the essence of our passion for football. Our intention was to compete in matches like this, and we have achieved our goal," Mahrez explained.
Lastly, Mattias Jaissle, Al-Ahli's manager, thanked his team and the club's fans for their unwavering support during their remarkable run. He acknowledged the importance of this win not only for the team but also for the fans.
"The incredible support from our fans, especially during hard times, played a decisive role in this win. They deserved to celebrate this victory alongside the team," Jaissle stated.
The journey to the AFC Champions League title was a formidable one for Al-Ahli, who remained undefeated throughout the competition, winning an impressive 12 out of 13 matches. The only blot on their record was a 2-2 draw with Iranian side Esteghlal during the group stage.
"I'm incredibly proud of the team's performance throughout the tournament," Jaissle continued, expressing his deep appreciation for the players, fans, and the striking atmosphere they created. "With support like this, we've achieved something truly special, and I cannot help but express my deepest gratitude."
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### James Harden makes surprising transformation, shaves off signature beard### Chris Eubank Jr's latest investigation among biggest concerns before Benn fightWith Ivan Toney also joining the Al-Ahli squad, he and others, such as ex-Leeds star Ezgjan Alioski, Spanish prodigy Gabri Veiga, and former Serie A defenders Roger Ibanez and Merih Demiral, hope to continue their successful run in future competitions.
- Al-Ahli, led by Roberto Firmino, embodying the spirit of Jurgen Klopp, are aiming to maintain their success in future European-leagues, as they welcome the addition of players like Ivan Toney, Ezgjan Alioski, Gabri Veiga, Roger Ibanez, and Merih Demiral.
- Mahrez, expressing his enthusiasm, feels playing "in a match like this" is the essence of his passion for football, after Al-Ahli won the AFC Champions League for the first time.
- Brendan Rodgers, manager of Leicester City, faces the possibility of exiting the club, amid rumors of a potential move to Celtic.
- The Premier League manager Allegri is rumored to be weighing a return to management with Al-Ahli, following their historic AFC Champions League win.
