Three former champions of the English Premier League break football records by accomplishing an unprecedented pairing.
Sizzling Victory! Al-Ahli's 2-0 Triumph Secures AFC Champions League Glory
Football history was made as Al-Ahli edged past Kawasaki Frontale 2-0, claiming the AFC Champions League title. Goals from former Porto star, Galeno, and ex-AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder, Franck Kessie, in the first half sealed the deal.
Three-time champions, Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino, etched their names in the annals of football, becoming the first and only players to conquer both the UEFA Champions League and the AFC Champions League.
Mendy proudly lifted the trophy with Chelsea in 2021, eking out a 1-0 victory over Manchester City in the final. In 2023, Mahrez led Manchester City to another 1-0 triumph, this time over Inter Milan. Firmino, meanwhile, clinched the UEFA title in 2019, when Liverpool defeated Tottenham 2-0 in Madrid. The Brazilian captain was also crowned Player of the Tournament, notching six goals and seven assists in 12 appearances[1].
Upon the final whistle, the trio shared heartfelt sentiments of pride and satisfaction. Dedicating their success to their teams, Firmino expressed:
"We fight every match, and I call it the monster mentality. When you have the monster mentality to win all the games, then you become champions."
Mahrez echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the significance of Al-Ahli's first-ever continental title:
"This is why we play football, to play in matches like this. Now we have to celebrate and enjoy with family, friends."
Al-Ahli manager, Mattias Jaissle, extended his gratitude to the fans who saved him from being replaced by former Juventus boss, Massimiliano Allegri. The team's exceptional performance throughout the competition – an unbeaten run of 12 victories and one draw – ensured that their historic victory was well-deserved.
Jaissle expressed his gratitude towards the fans, stating:
"The incredible fans totally deserved this as well. It is nice to give something back to all the supporters, especially the ones who were always there, even when there were ups and downs."
With the arrival of ex-Premier League striker, Ivan Toney, and other recognizable names like Ezgjan Alioski, Gabri Veiga, Roger Ibanez, and Merih Demiral, the future of Al-Ahli promises to be bright[2].
Footnote References:
[1]: Al-Ahli win AFC Champions League after 2-0 victory over Kawasaki Frontale
[2]: The rise of Al-Ahli: a new powerhouse in Asian football
[3]: The historic double: UEFA and AFC Champions League champions revealed
- Following Al-Ahli's 2-0 triumph over Kawasaki Frontale, football history was rewritten in the AFC Champions League.
- Ex-AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder, Franck Kessie, and former Porto star, Galeno, played a pivotal role in securing this victory.
- Now, three-time champions, Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino, can also lay claim to the AFC Champions League title, marking a rare achievement by conquering both the UEFA Champions League and AFC Champions League.
- Manager Mattias Jaissle, who avoided being replaced by Massimiliano Allegri due to the fans' support, expressed gratitude to them after Al-Ahli's historic, unbeaten run.
- The future of Al-Ahli seems promising with the addition of recognizable names like Ivan Toney, Ezgjan Alioski, Gabri Veiga, Roger Ibanez, and Merih Demiral.
- In the realm of European leagues, Al-Ahli's victory in the AFC Champions League could be seen as a stepping stone towards recognition and a possible future presence.
- Three-time champions Mendy, Mahrez, and Firmino will continue to relish and enjoy their unspoken sisterhood in the world of sports, their names etched in the annals of football history.
