Al Ain, UAE – Al Ain delivered a stunning upset in the first leg of the AFC Champions League semi-final, defeating Saudi giants Al Hilal 4-2 and ending their remarkable 34-match unbeaten run. The match played at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, was a penalty-filled affair that showcased Al Ain’s attacking prowess and Al Hilal’s vulnerability from set pieces.
Soufiane Rahimi was the hero for Al Ain, scoring a dazzling hat-trick in the first half. His opening goal in the 6th minute, a powerful strike from the edge of the box, set the tone for the hosts. Al Ain then doubled their lead with a penalty in the 26th minute, Rahimi converting after Al Hilal keeper was yellow-carded for fouling him inside the box. Rahimi completed his hat trick with yet another penalty before halftime.
Al Hilal fought back valiantly in the second half, with Malcolm pulling one back in the 49th minute. Al Ain restored their three-goal cushion when Alejandro Romero converted their fourth penalty of the night. Salem Aldawsari added a consolation goal for Al Hilal in the 78th minute, but it was too little, too late.
Al Ain’s victory sends shockwaves through the AFC Champions League. Al Hilal, the tournament favorite, was riding an incredible wave of momentum. However, their undisciplined defending cost them dearly, conceding three costly penalties.
The second leg in Riyadh promises to be a dramatic showdown. Al Hilal, facing a two-goal deficit, will need to channel their attacking firepower while tightening their defense to advance to the finals. Can they reclaim their dominance and add the AFC Champions League trophy to their cabinet, or will Al Ain complete a fairytale upset?
