The air in Baghdad was heavy with anticipation, yet it quickly turned into a nightmare for Al Shorta fans. Al Ahli Saudi FC didn't just defeat their opponents, they steamrolled them, claiming a 5-0 victory and paving their way to the Round of 16 in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26.

Dominance from the Get-Go

Al Ahli's win wasn't a mere show of skill, it was a statement. Sitting pretty with 13 points, the defending champions guaranteed a top-eight finish in their zone, and they still have two matches left. Al Shorta, on the other hand, is teetering on the edge of elimination.

Early on, the game had a different tone. Al Shorta came out swinging, almost shocking the visitors when Mahmoud Almawas barely missed a header from Hasan Raed’s cross. The Iraqi team pushed hard, with Leonel Mbida making Al Ahli's defense sweat before his powerful shot was blocked.

Al Ahli Takes Control

Even without key players like Franck Kessié and Riyad Mahrez, Al Ahli didn't flinch. They absorbed the pressure and then, in the 30th minute, Roger Ibanez surged forward, playing a one-two with Ivan Toney before slotting the ball into the net. It was a clinical finish.

Al Shorta had their chances to level the score before halftime. Ahmed Farhan couldn't capitalize on a close-range opportunity, and Mbida's attempt was thwarted by a stellar save from Abdulrahman Alsanbi.

The Onslaught Continues

After the break, Al Ahli shifted gears. Toney became a nightmare for Al Shorta's defense. He set up Fahad Alrashidi, whose shot was blocked, only to score himself moments later. Galeno chipped a pass to Toney, who deftly controlled it and guided the ball past the goalkeeper.

The Saudi side wasn't done. In the 72nd minute, Saleh Alshamat unleashed Galeno down the flank. The Brazilian danced past Mustafa Saadoon and finished with ease. Alshamat then got on the scoresheet, controlling a long pass from Toney and chipping it into the corner.

Finally, Ziyad Aljohani put the cherry on top with a fifth goal, sealing Al Ahli's emphatic performance.

The Road Ahead

This result sends a clear message: Al Ahli is serious about defending their title. Al Shorta, meanwhile, must regroup and fight for survival in the remaining fixtures. The clock is ticking for them.