Riyad Mahrez has pledged that Al Ahli will give everything to lift their first Asian Champions League title when they face Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in Saturday’s final in Jeddah.
The Saudi club, unbeaten throughout the tournament, are appearing in their second final of the Champions League era, having lost the 2012 showpiece to Ulsan Hyundai.
Speaking on the eve of the clash at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Mahrez said the team was determined to reward their passionate supporters.
“We’re going to fight for every second of the game, to lift the trophy,” said the Algerian, who leads the competition in assists and is chasing the Golden Boot with nine goals. “This is for the fans, for the club, and for everyone who has worked so hard.”
Mahrez, a Champions League winner with Manchester City in 2023 and Africa Cup of Nations champion in 2019, said winning in Asia would be a new and exciting challenge. “I really want to win a trophy with this team, with this club,” he added.
Al Ahli’s star-studded squad includes Ivan Toney, Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, Franck Kessie, and Feras Al Buraikan — all of whom played a part in the semi-final victory.
Their opponents, Frontale, reached their first Asian final by knocking out Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr 3-2 in the semis. Manager Shigetoshi Hasebe acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying his side would need to give “100 percent energy” to compete.
Al Ahli boss Matthias Jaissle responded confidently: “Let’s see how the opponent wants to surprise us. We respect them, but we know what to do — maybe we can surprise them as well.”
Frontale captain Yasuto Wakizaka said victory could elevate his club’s global standing. “If we win, it’s very big for the club. This is a very important game for our future.”
