Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Al Ain secured a dramatic victory in the second leg of the AFC Champions League semifinal, defeating Saudi giants Al Hilal 5-4 on aggregate despite a 2-1 loss on the night. The result ends Al Hilal’s impressive run of form and denies them a chance to add continental glory to their domestic dominance.
Al Hilal, fresh off a Saudi Super Cup win and poised to clinch the league title, entered the match facing elimination after a 4-2 away loss in the first leg. They got off to a dream start with an early Ruben Neves penalty in the 4th minute.
However, Al Ain equalized in the 12th minute. The two sides continued to exchange chances in a thrilling first half, punctuated by a controversial penalty decision that was ultimately overturned by VAR, leaving the score 1-1 at halftime.
Al Hilal came out fighting in the second half, with Saleem Aldawsari scoring in the 51st minute. However, their relentless pursuit of a third goal proved fruitless. While they managed to win the second leg, Al Ain’s lead proved insurmountable.
Al Ain’s victory denies manager Jorge Jesus and his star-studded Al Hilal side a chance to add the AFC Champions League trophy to their cabinet this season.
