Historic Arab Dominance in AFC Champions League Elite Semis
Published Date: 27th Apr, 2025
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia — April 27, 2025
In a groundbreaking achievement for Asian club football, three Arab clubs—Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli—have secured their places in the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League Elite 2025. This marks the first time in the tournament's history that three teams from the Arab region have reached this stage, underscoring the growing dominance of Middle Eastern football.
Al-Nassr's Commanding Victory
Al-Nassr showcased their prowess with a resounding 4-1 win over Japan's Yokohama F. Marinos. The match saw standout performances from Jhon Durán, who netted a brace, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who marked his return to the semi-finals after a seven-year hiatus. The victory propels Al-Nassr into the semi-finals, where they await the winner of the quarter-final clash between Al-Sadd and Kawasaki Frontale.
Al-Hilal's Historic Rout
Al-Hilal delivered a statement performance, demolishing South Korea's Gwangju FC 7-0. Goals from Sergej Milinković-Savić, Marcos Leonardo, and a brace from Salem Al-Dawsari highlighted the team's attacking brilliance. This emphatic win not only secures their semi-final spot but also sends a strong message to their continental rivals.
Al-Ahli's Tactical Mastery
Al-Ahli demonstrated tactical discipline and clinical finishing in their 3-0 triumph over Thailand's Buriram United. Early goals from Riyad Mahrez, Galeno, and Roberto Firmino sealed the win, with Al-Ahli now set to face Al-Hilal in an all-Saudi semi-final that promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Looking Ahead
The semi-finals, scheduled for April 29 and 30, will see Al-Nassr face either Al-Sadd or Kawasaki Frontale, while Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli will contest the second semi-final. All matches are set to take place at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, with the final on May 3.
As the tournament progresses, the spotlight remains on these three Arab clubs, each vying for continental supremacy and aiming to etch their names in AFC Champions League history.
News Highlights:
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Al-Nassr's Dominance: Al-Nassr's commanding 4-1 victory over Yokohama F. Marinos propels them into the semi-finals, with standout performances from Jhon Durán and Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Historic Rout by Al-Hilal: Al-Hilal's 7-0 demolition of Gwangju FC secures their semi-final berth, showcasing their attacking prowess.
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Al-Ahli's Tactical Brilliance: Al-Ahli's 3-0 win over Buriram United sets up an all-Saudi semi-final against Al-Hilal, highlighting the tactical discipline of the team.
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Semi-Final Matchups: The semi-finals, scheduled for April 29 and 30, will feature Al-Nassr against either Al-Sadd or Kawasaki Frontale, and Al-Hilal facing Al-Ahli in an all-Saudi showdown.
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Final Match Date: The AFC Champions League Elite 2025 final is scheduled for May 3 at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Date: 27th Apr, 2025
