Al-Ahli Saudi FC successfully defended their AFC Champions League Elite title, defeating Japan's Machida Zelvia 2-1 in extra time in the final held on April 25, 2026, at a neutral venue in Qatar.
The match was tightly contested, with both teams creating chances in regular time. The score remained 1-1 after 90 minutes, forcing extra time. Al-Ahli's winning goal came in the 105th minute from a header by striker Firas Al-Buraikan, assisted by a cross from Riyad Mahrez.
Machida Zelvia, making their first appearance in the tournament's final, took an early lead in the 12th minute through a goal by forward Erik. Al-Ahli equalized in the 38th minute via a penalty converted by Franck Kessié after a handball in the box.
This victory marks Al-Ahli's second consecutive AFC Champions League Elite title, solidifying their dominance in Asian club football. The win also secures their place in the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup.
