Mahrez, Mendy and Kessié crowned AFC Champions League winners 2025 with Al Ahli FC

On Saturday, May 3, 2025, Al Ahli FC wrote a historic new chapter by claiming their first-ever AFC Champions League title—also known as the Asian Champions League—after two previous final losses in 1986 and 2012. The Saudi club dominated the showdown against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale.

Against Kawasaki Frontale, the Saudis dictated the tempo and turned their first-half dominance into goals. Galeno broke the deadlock in the 35th minute, before Ivorian star Franck Kessié doubled the lead seven minutes later—both strikes set up by Roberto Firmino’s assists. Despite a determined Japanese push in the second half, Al Ahli’s rock-solid defense held firm.

Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy kept a clean sheet, pulling off several crucial saves to preserve his side’s advantage. This triumph caps off a remarkable campaign, highlighted by a 3-1 semifinal win over Al-Hilal where the Senegalese shot-stopper was again instrumental. With two clean sheets in nine tournament appearances, Edouard Mendy was named Best Goalkeeper of the 2024/2025 AFC Champions League.

This victory is a testament to a well-drilled squad led by coach Tomas Jaissle, who made the most of his international stars’ experience and talent. Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, with 9 goals and 8 assists in 13 matches, finished as the tournament’s second most decisive player.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.