Al-Ahli crowned champions of the AFC Champions League, and the Minister of Sports congratulates the leadership
His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, extended his warmest congratulations and blessings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the occasion of the great continental achievement of Al-Ahli Saudi Club.
This congratulation came after Al-Ahli's first football team won the AFC Champions League title for the 2025-2026 season, following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Japan's Machida Zeleva in the final match held on Saturday evening, April 25, 2026, at the Al-Inma Stadium in King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. This title is the first of its kind in the club's long and distinguished history on the continental stage, crowning a remarkable run in the tournament.
Historical context and importance of the achievement
This victory represents the culmination of Al-Ahli's long quest for Asian glory. The club, a pillar of Saudi football with a rich history of domestic achievements, had previously reached the continental final twice, in 1986 and 2012, but were ultimately unsuccessful. This triumph in the new format of the AFC Champions League reaffirms Al-Ahli's status as a formidable force in Asian football and adds another prestigious title to its trophy cabinet.
Reflecting government support and the development of Saudi sports
In his statement on this occasion, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal affirmed that this achievement would not have been possible without the generous support and keen interest shown by the wise leadership in the sports sector. His Highness said, “Thanks to God’s grace, the Kingdom’s sports continue their distinguished presence on various stages, and football is witnessing exceptional growth and development under the generous patronage of our leadership, which is embodied today in the continued achievement of accomplishments for our beloved nation.” He added that Al-Ahli’s victory represents a new addition to the record of Saudi clubs’ continental championships and reflects the significant development witnessed by the Saudi Professional League within the framework of the Saudi Vision 2030.
The impact of the victory on the regional and international stage
The significance of this title extends beyond the local level, enhancing the reputation of Saudi football regionally and internationally. Winning the most prestigious club championship in Asia underscores the strength and competitiveness of the Saudi league, which has attracted international stars, and sends a clear message that Saudi clubs are capable of competing at the highest levels. This victory also guarantees Al-Ahli a place in the FIFA Club World Cup, giving them the opportunity to compete against champions from other continents and raise the Kingdom's flag on the world stage. The Minister of Sport concluded his statement by congratulating the Al-Ahli management, players, and fans on this well-deserved achievement, wishing all Saudi clubs continued success in achieving further accomplishments befitting the stature of the nation's sport.
