Al Ahli Saudi FC are targeting back-to-back continental glory as they face Machida Zelvia in the AFC Champions League Elite final on Saturday evening at King Abdullah Sports City.
Al Ahli secured their place in the final after a 2 to 1 victory over Vissel Kobe in the semifinal, led by standout performances from Riyad Mahrez and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Machida Zelvia reached the final following a narrow 1 to 0 win against Shabab Al Ahli, setting up a high-stakes encounter with the defending champions.
Saudi clubs have a strong history in the competition, with Al Hilal winning the title four times and Al Ittihad claiming it twice.
Al Ahli lifted their first title in the previous edition and now aim to become the first club to win the competition in its new format for two consecutive seasons.
Historically, Saudi and Japanese clubs have met in six previous finals, with each side winning three titles, adding extra significance to this match as Al Ahli look to tip the balance in favor of Saudi teams.
Under coach Matthias Jaissle, Al Ahli are one step away from a historic achievement in the revamped tournament, which now features 24 teams since the 2024 to 2025 season.
A victory would also make Al Ahli the first club to win consecutive Asian titles since Al Ittihad achieved the feat in 2004 and 2005.
It would further cement their place in history as the first champions of the competition under its new identity.
Machida Zelvia, however, arrive with confidence after a consistent run through the tournament and will look to cause an upset by claiming their first continental title in what promises to be one of the most exciting matches of the season.
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