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Al-Ahli Jeddah edges Persepolis FC in a tight match
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Al-Ahli Jeddah emerged victorious over Persepolis FC with a 1-0 scoreline in a captivating encounter during the first matchday of the AFC Champions League group stage. The game, held at Prince Abdullah al-Faisal Stadium, was marked by Persepolis FC’s territorial dominance, but Al-Ahli Jeddah’s superior attacking effectiveness ultimately determined the outcome.
The opening goal arrived early, in the 2nd minute, thanks to a powerful finish from F. Kessie, assisted by R. Mahrez. Persepolis FC responded with an intense display, generating several dangerous chances, but Al-Ahli Jeddah’s defense held firm and maintained their lead.
In the second half, Persepolis FC relentlessly pursued an equalizer, but fortune was not on their side. R. Mahrez missed a penalty in the 57th minute, which provided Al-Ahli Jeddah with the reassurance needed to control the match.
Despite numerous yellow cards and numerous substitutions, Al-Ahli Jeddah managed the game effectively to secure the three points. This victory marks a positive start for Al-Ahli Jeddah in the AFC Champions League, while Persepolis FC will need to rectify certain shortcomings to challenge for qualification.
Statistics:
Al-Ahli Jeddah: 48% possession, 10 shots (4 on target, 5 off target), 3 corners, 15 fouls, 1 yellow, 0 red.
Persepolis FC: 52% possession, 14 shots (5 on target, 7 off target), 3 corners, 15 fouls, 2 yellow, 0 red.
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Substitutions al-ahli jeddah: at minute 46 G. Veiga came in and R. Firmino went out., at minute 76 Alexsander came in and Z. Al Johani went out., at minute 76 S. Al Nabit came in and Feras Al Brikan went out., at minute 76 A. Darisi came in and R. Mahrez went out., at minute 90 B. Al Hurayji came in and A. Al Ammar went out.
Substitutions persepolis fc: at minute 46 O. Alishah came in and F. Ahmadzadeh went out., at minute 67 M. Khodabandelou came in and S. Rafiei went out., at minute 67 I. Alkasir came in and A. Alipour went out., at minute 71 S. Sadeghi came in and A. El Amloud went out., at minute 82 L. Joao came in and M. Rigi went out.
The teams lined up as follows:
Al-Ahli Jeddah
Titulares:
Persepolis FC
Titulares:
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