Sport · Singapore Bureau
Al-Ahli Salvages Draw With Late Strike in Champions League Opener
Asian champions Al-Ahli drew 1-1 with Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor in their Asian Champions League Elite debut, with Feras Al-Brikan equalising in stoppage time on Monday in Jeddah.
LSN Singapore ·
Feras Al-Brikan's injury-time goal rescued a point for defending champions Al-Ahli in their opening fixture of the Asian Champions League Elite on Monday. The Saudi club drew 1-1 with Uzbekistan's Pakhtakor at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, preventing what would have been a disappointing loss in their continental campaign opener.
Al-Brikan struck decisively in stoppage time to level the match after Pakhtakor had taken the lead earlier in the encounter. The equaliser ensured Al-Ahli avoided a damaging defeat at the start of their title defence in the elite continental competition.
The result represents a mixed start for the Asian champions in their bid to maintain their standing in the continental tournament. While the late rally demonstrated character, Al-Ahli will be seeking to build on the point and secure victories in upcoming fixtures to establish momentum in the competition.