Amazing! Defending champions Al Ahli from Saudi Arabia, down to 10 men, came from behind to beat Johor Darul Ta'zim from Malaysia and advanced to the semifinals of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025-26.
In the AFC Champions League Elite 2026 quarterfinals on Friday night, 17 April, defending champions Al Ahli from Saudi Arabia faced off fiercely against strong Malaysian side Johor Darul Ta'zim.
At 19 minutes into the game, Johor took a 1-0 lead thanks to an own goal by Al Ahli's Ali Majrashi. Then, at the 37th minute, Majrashi received a red card, reducing Al Ahli to 10 men.
However, during first-half stoppage time at 45+3 minutes, Al Ahli managed to equalize 1-1 with a header from Franck Kessié, and the half ended with that scoreline.
In the second half, at the 54th minute, the numerically disadvantaged Al Ahli took the lead 2-1 with a stunning goal from Galeno.
The match ended with Al Ahli beating Johor 2-1, advancing to the semifinals where they will face Vissel Kobe on 20 April.