Defending champions Al Ahli secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Qatar's Al Duhail in the AFC Champions League Elite Round of 16 on Monday, advancing to the quarterfinals thanks to Riyad Mahrez's 117th-minute free kick. The match, held at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, saw Al Ahli survive a tense extra-time battle after Al Duhail goalkeeper Salah Zakaria saved a penalty from Ivan Toney late in the first half of added time.
"It was a difficult game. I don't think we played very well," Mahrez admitted post-match. "But we found a way through with the free kick, and that's what matters." The Algerian international's left-footed strike from outside the box left Zakaria rooted, sparing Al Ahli a penalty shootout.
Four-time champions Al Hilal suffered a shock exit in the same round, falling to Qatar's Al Sadd in a penalty shootout. The result marks a significant shift in this year's tournament dynamics, with Saudi Arabian clubs facing heightened competition from Qatari rivals.
Analysts note the match underscores growing parity in Asian club football, while Al Ahli's progression keeps them on track to defend their continental title. The quarterfinal draw, scheduled for April 21, will determine their next opponents in the current campaign.
