Al-Ahli Triumphs Over Al-Nassr to Capture Saudi Super Cup

Al-Ahli secured the Saudi Super Cup title by defeating Al-Nassr in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 5-3 after a thrilling 2-2 draw during regulation time. The match took place in Hong Kong on February 24, 2024, showcasing the intensity of two of Saudi Arabia’s premier football clubs.

In a tightly contested match, Al-Nassr initially took the lead with a penalty kick converted by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 41st minute. The momentum shifted as Al-Ahli responded with a goal from Franck Kessie, who found the net in the 45+6th minute, just before halftime. The second half saw Marcelo Brozovic restore Al-Nassr’s lead with a goal in the 82nd minute. Yet, Roger Ibanez da Silva equalized for Al-Ahli in the 89th minute, forcing the match into penalties.

Path to the Final

Al-Nassr reached the final by overcoming Al-Ittihad with a score of 2-1, while Al-Ahli advanced by dominating Al-Qadsiah 5-1 in their respective semifinal matches. The contrasting routes to the final set the stage for a captivating showdown between two formidable teams.

Significance of the Victory

This year’s Saudi Super Cup marks the twelfth edition of the tournament. Historically, five clubs have claimed the title: Al-Hilal leads with five championships, followed by Al-Nassr with two, and Al-Fateh, Al-Shabab, Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad each with one.

With this victory, Al-Ahli not only adds another trophy to their cabinet but also reinforces their standing in Saudi football. The match underscored the competitive spirit and skill present in the league, with both teams displaying a high level of play throughout the encounter.

As the players celebrated their hard-fought victory, fans on both sides were treated to a memorable spectacle that showcased the growing prominence of football in the region. The Saudi Super Cup continues to be an essential platform for clubs to demonstrate their prowess and ambition on an international stage.