Matthias Jaissle Celebrates Landmark Victory as Al Ahli Defends Asian Champions League Title

Al Ahli successfully defended their title even after being reduced to ten men when Zakaria Hawsawi received a red card, with Feras Al-Brikan scoring the decisive goal in extra time.

“I’m incredibly proud of what the team has accomplished and how every player committed to this journey,” remarked the German coach, who made history as the first coach to win consecutive titles since the inception of the Asian Champions League in 2002.

“This year was exceptional as we faced numerous challenges along the way.”

The triumph allowed Al Ahli to match the achievement of their city rivals Al Ittihad, who were champions in 2004 and 2005. Jaissle acknowledged that playing the finals at their home ground significantly contributed to their success.

“Of course, a part of our success came from playing here in Jeddah in front of our fans, who energised us and gave us an extra boost,” he stated. “Winning this title back-to-back is truly historic.”

“It feels a bit surreal. I’m feeling a bit drained. There’s a huge sense of relief given the pressure we faced. It might take a few days for it to fully sink in, but we still have league matches ahead, and our aim is to continue progressing past the teams in front of us.”

Al-Brikan scores extra-time winner following Hawsawi’s red card

Al Ahli found themselves up against Japanese opposition in the final for the second consecutive year, having defeated Kawasaki Frontale the previous season. Jaissle’s team found it challenging to break through Go Kuroda’s well-organised squad.

Machida entered the final at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium having conceded a mere seven goals in twelve matches in the competition, maintaining four consecutive clean sheets in the knockout stages.

Goalkeeper Kosei Tani was forced into action, denying Galeno, while Merih Demiral struck the crossbar, with the Japanese side posing little threat at the other end.

Everything changed when Hawsawi was sent off in the 68th minute for a headbutt on Tete Yengi, clearly visible to referee Ilgiz Tantashev, who acted swiftly to dismiss the full-back.

Despite Machida becoming more dominant with the one-man advantage, it was Al Ahli who found the net in the 96th minute, with Al-Brikan scoring from close range after a setup from Franck Kessie following Riyad Mahrez’s cross.

“We were well aware we were up against a team that is exceptionally disciplined defensively,” commented Jaissle. “We had chances to score, but it became increasingly difficult after Hawsawi’s unnecessary dismissal.”

“However, we displayed the right mentality and the players kept believing, which makes me immensely proud as a coach.”

“We discussed at halftime that with one fewer player on the pitch, we needed to endure and put in even more effort. Nevertheless, we have quality players who can capitalise on the slightest opportunity.”