Al Ahli Saudi FC Storm Into AFC Champions League Elite Semi-Finals with 3-0 Win Over Buriram United
Jeddah, The Gulf Observer: Al Ahli Saudi FC secured their place in the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League Elite Finals Jeddah 2025 with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Buriram United on Saturday at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.
The Saudi giants asserted their dominance early, racing to a three-goal lead before halftime and setting up a highly anticipated all-Saudi semi-final clash against Al Hilal SFC, who had dismantled Gwangju FC 7-0 in their quarter-final.
Al Ahli capitalized on an early defensive error by Buriram, with Roberto Firmino setting up Riyad Mahrez to open the scoring in the fourth minute. Just two minutes later, Roger Ibanez’s incisive pass found Galeno, who slipped the ball through goalkeeper Neil Etheridge’s legs to double the advantage.
Buriram’s hopes for a comeback were briefly revived when referee Ahmed Al Kaf awarded a penalty after a challenge on Martin Boakye. However, the decision was overturned following a VAR review. Al Ahli maintained their pressure, and in the 30th minute, Merih Demiral’s headed assist allowed Firmino to tap in the third goal, all but sealing the victory before halftime.
Despite tactical changes and substitutions by Buriram head coach Osmar Loss, including the introduction of Lucas Crispim, Goran Causic, Guilherme Bissoli, and Supachai Chaided, the Thai side struggled to break down a resolute Al Ahli defense. Another late penalty appeal for Al Ahli was dismissed after VAR consultation, but it made no difference to the outcome.
Al Ahli will now shift their focus to their upcoming semi-final against Al Hilal, as they continue their pursuit of a maiden AFC Champions League Elite title.
