RIYADH: Al Ain made it to the Asian Champions League final for the first time since 2016, even though they lost 2-1 to Al Hilal in the second leg in Riyadh on Tuesday. They won overall with a score of 5-4.
Al Hilal, who were behind 4-2 after the first leg, quickly caught up with a goal from Ruben Neves. Then, Brazilian Erik scored for Al Ain, making the score equal and making Al Hilal’s task in the second half difficult. Salem Al Dawsari’s goal gave Al Hilal hope again.
Despite Al Hilal’s strong pressure, Al Ain’s goalkeeper Khalid Eisa made six important saves, stopping goals from Michael and Mohamed Kanno towards the end of the game.
Al Ain managed to hold on during nine minutes of extra time, with Eisa stopping another goal attempt from Michael in the 98th minute.
Now, Hernan Crespo’s team will wait for the winner of the match between Yokohama F-Marinos and Ulsan Hyundai in the semifinal. They’re hoping for their second Asian Champions League title, the first one since 2003.
Yokohama is currently behind 1-0 overall before their second leg against Ulsan Hyundai on Wednesday.
