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Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy and Riyad Mahrez make history as first stars to win Asian and European Champions Leagues after ex-Liverpool forward inspires Al-Ahli to final win against Kawasaki Frontale.
Two first-half assists from ex-Liverpool star Firmino, with Galeno and Franck Kessie finishing, powered Al-Ahli to a victory in front of their own fans at the King Abdullah Sports City.
Former Chelsea goalkeeper Mendy and ex-Manchester City star Mahrez were also in the starting XI as they beat Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale to claim the Asian crown. Having won the European competition during their spells with their former Premier League teams, the three are the first in history to win both continental titles.
Firmino won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2019 as Jurgen Klopp’s men beat Tottenham 2-0 in Madrid. Two years later, Mendy was in goal as Chelsea beat Mahrez’s City side in Porto and in 2023, Mahrez got his hands on a winners’ medal when Pep Guardiola’s side got the better of Inter.
Al-Ahli have won the AFC Champions League for the first time in their history, having reached the final in 1986 and 2012. They won 12 and drew one of the 13 games they played on their way to the title.
AFPAl-Ahli will not have much time to celebrate their success as they return to Saudi Pro League action when they face Al-Tawoon on Wednesday. They are fifth in the league and 10 points behind leaders Al-Ittihad.
