JEDDAH — Al Ahli came from behind with 10 men to defeat Johor Darul Ta’zim 2-1 on Friday and book their place in the AFC Champions League Elite semi-finals.
The defending champions suffered an early setback when an own goal from Ali Majrashi handed JDT the lead, before the Al Ahli defender was later sent off for serious foul play in the first half.
Despite being reduced to 10 players, Al Ahli responded before the break when Franck Kessié powered home a header in stoppage time from a corner delivered by Galeno.
The hosts then completed the turnaround in the 54th minute through a moment of brilliance from Galeno, whose fierce long-range strike left goalkeeper Andoni Zubiaurre with no chance.
JDT had stunned the home crowd in the 19th minute when Jairo drove into the penalty area and his dangerous cross was turned into his own net by Majrashi under pressure.
Al Ahli pushed hard for an equalizer, with Riyad Mahrez going close before Majrashi’s night worsened when he was dismissed after catching Jairo in the face with a high boot.
Even with the numerical disadvantage, Matthias Jaissle’s side dominated large spells of the second half and defended strongly late on, with goalkeeper Edouard Mendy producing key saves to deny the Malaysian champions.
Al Ahli will now face Vissel Kobe in Monday’s semi-final as they continue their bid to retain the continental title.
Source: Saudi Gazette