Saudi clubs continued to dominate the West Zone competitions in the AFC Champions , with the nation's representative (Al-Hilal) taking the lead in the group stage standings, while its brother (Al-Ahli) settled for second place, after returning with two valuable points from the United Arab Emirates following tactical goalless draws against Shabab Al-Ahli and Al-Wahda.
Al-Hilal soars alone at the top
In a closely contested match at Rashid Stadium in Dubai, Al Hilal managed to secure a goalless draw against their hosts, Shabab Al Ahli. Despite fielding a slightly altered lineup, the Saudi giants proved their ability to compete with an opponent who fielded their full squad. The match also saw a standout performance from young goalkeeper Mathieu Batui, who made several crucial saves, most notably from a shot by Brazilian striker Bala.
The pace of the match increased with the introduction of substitutes, as the arrival of Brazilian star Malcom and Portuguese Ruben Neves provided a significant boost to Al-Hilal's attack. Neves almost sealed the victory with a powerful shot that narrowly missed the crossbar. With this result, Al-Hilal reached 19 points, maintaining their sole lead at the top of the table and securing their first draw of the competition, while Shabab Al-Ahli moved up to 11 points in fifth place.
Al-Ahly and the well-deserved runner-up position
Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, specifically at Al Nahyan Stadium, Al-Ahli Saudi FC secured a point with a draw against their hosts, Al-Wahda FC of the UAE. The match saw Al-Ahli dominate possession, threatening the opposition's goal on several occasions. The most dangerous chances included a shot from Ivorian Franck Kessié that went just wide of the post, and a powerful strike from Algerian Riyad Mahrez that was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Ahmed Zayed.
The match witnessed a controversial refereeing decision when a goal by English striker Ivan Tony was disallowed for a foul on defender Ibanez, resulting in a goalless draw. This result leaves Al Ahli with 14 points, maintaining their second-place position, while Al Wahda also have 14 points but sit in fourth place on goal difference.
The context of the tournament and the importance of the results
These results further solidify Saudi Arabia's position in Asia, especially with the new format of the AFC Champions League, which brings together the continent's best clubs in a condensed league system. Maintaining top positions is crucial to ensuring a more favorable draw in the knockout stages and avoiding early clashes between strong teams.
Historically, Saudi-Emirati matches have always been characterized by competitiveness and excitement, reflecting the development of Gulf football. Saudi clubs deserve credit for their ability to achieve positive results away from home, demonstrating the tactical maturity and accumulated continental experience that both Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli possess in international competitions.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the next crucial round on February 16, when Al-Hilal hosts Al-Wahda of the UAE, while Al-Ahli concludes its group stage matches with a tough encounter against Shabab Al-Ahli of the UAE in Jeddah, in matches that will determine the final shape of the top teams' standings.
