AFC Champions League: Riyad Mahrez lights up the semifinals!

Riyad Mahrez was the key architect of Al-Ahli's commanding victory over Al-Hilal (1-3) on Tuesday in the first leg of the Asian Champions League semifinals. The captain of the Fennecs delivered a dazzling performance against an overwhelmed Saudi defense, epitomized by a struggling Kalidou Koulibaly.

From the opening minutes, Mahrez was sharp. He shone with his bursts of speed, vision, and technical skills.

On his team's second goal, the Algerian prodigy bewildered his opponent before delivering a brilliant pass to Ivan Toney, who rounded Bounou to finish into an empty net (27th minute). Video:

This eighth assist in the competition brings his decisive contributions to 35 this season (16 goals, 19 assists).

Mahrez unstoppable, Koulibaly completely outmatched!

On the other side, Koulibaly had a nightmare, sent off in the 59th minute after a second yellow card. Al-Hilal finished with ten men, leaving more space for the relentless Mahrez.

In the 83rd minute, the Algerian drew a penalty missed by Kessié. Finally, in the dying moments, Firas Al-Buraikan sealed the victory (90+10).

This is yet another high-level performance for Mahrez in Saudi Arabia, logically named man of the match. Al-Ahli takes a significant step towards the final.

Amine Jomni |

Editorfr

African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.