Al Ahli Secures AFC Champions League Round of 16 with Victory

In a significant achievement for the club, Al Ahli has qualified for the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League after a decisive 2-0 victory over PFC Andijon of Uzbekistan on Wednesday in Doha, Qatar. Head coach Younes Ali commended his players for their commitment and determination, emphasizing that their advancement was a result of hard work and consistent performance.

Team Effort Leads to Success

Following the match, Ali highlighted the challenges his team faced against a disciplined opponent. He noted that the players needed to maintain focus and tactical flexibility from the start to the end of the game. “We faced a strong team with a compact defensive structure, and it was necessary to use more than one attacking solution to break them down,” Ali stated. “The players showed great effort and discipline throughout the match, and that is what made the difference.”

Ali expressed his satisfaction not only with the victory but also with finishing at the top of Group B. He described this achievement as a well-deserved reward for the consistency and intensity displayed by his squad during the group stage. “The scoreline could have been bigger, but what matters most is qualification. The players deserve full credit for this achievement,” he added.

Individual Highlights and Collective Spirit

Midfielder Michel Vlap, who scored both goals and was named Man of the Match, emphasized the importance of teamwork in securing the win. He praised the unity and high morale within the squad, which he believed were key factors behind their success. Vlap specifically acknowledged the contributions of teammates Eric Exposito, Omar Sekou, and Julian Draxler, stating that the team’s efforts spanned from the goalkeeper to the forwards.

Looking ahead, Vlap underscored Al Ahli’s determination to continue their strong performance in the competition. He affirmed the squad’s commitment to presenting their best image as they aim to advance further in the tournament. “Our focus is entirely on moving forward and maintaining the momentum we have built,” he said.

With this victory, Al Ahli has not only secured their place in the knockout stages but has also set a positive tone for the rest of their campaign in the AFC Champions League.