Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy says Al Ahli’s back-to-back continental triumph is a “tremendous honor” after the Saudi club retained the AFC Champions League title with a hard-fought win in Jeddah.
Al Ahli defeated Japanese side Machida Zelvia 1-0 after extra time on Saturday, securing their second consecutive crown in Asia’s premier club competition.
The victory also marks the first time since 2004 and 2005 that a Saudi club has successfully defended the title.
Speaking after the match, captain Mendy praised both his teammates and the supporters for their role in the achievement.
“This second consecutive title is a tremendous honor. It was a fantastic day thanks to the fans. We won the title twice in a row in Jeddah because of them.
“We are the best in Asia; we represent Saudi Arabia and we are proud of it. With our qualities, we can compete with any opponent.”
The final itself was far from straightforward.
Al Ahli were reduced to ten men in the 68th minute after left-back Zakaria Hawasi was sent off following an off-the-ball incident.
From that moment, the momentum shifted, with Machida Zelvia pushing forward in search of a decisive goal.
During that tense spell, Mendy’s experience proved decisive.
The Senegal international organised the defence and helped maintain composure under sustained pressure. His leadership ensured the Saudi side held firm through the remainder of normal time.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the match moved into extra time. It was there that Al Ahli’s attacking quality finally made the difference.
Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez delivered a cross from the right, which was controlled by Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié. Kessié then set up Firas Al-Buraikan, who finished from close range in the 96th minute to seal the win.
The goal proved enough to settle the contest and confirm Al Ahli’s status as champions once again.
Mendy highlighted the collective effort behind the triumph, pointing to the team’s resilience in difficult moments.
“We won thanks to the team’s strong character, and the fans will certainly be delighted with this victory.”
For the former Chelsea FC goalkeeper, the success adds to an already decorated career.
Having previously lifted major honours in Europe, Mendy has now reinforced his reputation on the Asian stage as well.
His performances in decisive matches continue to draw attention.
Notably, he has maintained a perfect defensive record in finals, keeping clean sheets in each of his appearances on such occasions, an extraordinary statistic that underlines his consistency at the highest level.
Beyond individual achievements, the victory also highlights the growing influence of African players in global club competitions.
Mendy, alongside teammates like Mahrez and Kessié, played a central role in delivering the title.
For Al Ahli, the win caps a remarkable run and reinforces their dominance in Asian football.
For Mendy, it is further proof of a career defined by resilience, leadership and success on the biggest stages.
