Defending champions Al-Ahli have dramatically advanced to the quarter finals of the AFC Champions League Elite following a nerve wracking encounter with Al-Duhail. The match seemed destined for a penalty shootout until the 117th minute of extra time when Riyad Mahrez stepped up to deliver a moment of magic. His perfectly curved free kick sailed into the top corner, securing a 4-3 aggregate victory and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

The match was a tactical battle, with both sides trading goals in a high intensity affair. Al-Ahli struggled to break down a stubborn Al-Duhail defense for much of the second half, but the experience of their European stars eventually paid off. Mahrez’s goal marks his fifth of the tournament, further establishing him as one of the most lethal set piece specialists in Asian football today.

With this win, Al-Ahli remains on track to defend their continental crown and will now wait for the quarter final draw to determine their next opponent. Rival clubs like Al-Sadd, who also progressed after a shootout win over Al-Hilal, will be wary of Al-Ahli's ability to pull off late game heroics. The victory confirms the Saudi club's dominance in the region as they continue to invest heavily in world class talent.