Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Riyad Mahrez is on the brink of achieving a rare and remarkable football milestone: winning major continental trophies across three different regions.

The Algerian star is aiming to add the AFC Champions League Elite title to his already glittering collection when Al Ahli Saudi FC face Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in Saturday’s final in Jeddah.

Mahrez, 34, has already lifted the UEFA Champions League and Premier League titles with Manchester City and the Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria. Now, he has the opportunity to guide Al Ahli to their first-ever continental triumph in front of a home crowd at King Abdullah Sports City.

“This is a trophy on another continent, in Asia,” said Mahrez ahead of the decider. “I’ve played other finals before but when you play this type of competition, especially at home, it’s a special opportunity. We want to bring the first Champions League Elite title to Al Ahli.”

Mahrez has been instrumental in Al Ahli’s dominant campaign, featuring in all 12 matches, scoring nine goals and contributing eight assists.

He also leads the competition in chances created with 43, underlining his influence on every phase of play.

“I’ve been lucky to play in teams that win trophies, but each final is different. I’m excited to give everything for this club and this team,” he added.

Despite Al Ahli’s impressive form, Mahrez warned against complacency ahead of the showdown with Kawasaki Frontale, who have reached the final for the first time after wins over Al Sadd and Al Nassr.

“The opponent is not someone we play every week, but we’ve studied them. We know our approach,” Mahrez said.

“Finals don’t come around every season, and for some players this might be the only final in their career. We’ll give everything.”

The final, set to be played in front of a passionate Jeddah crowd, is expected to mirror the electric atmosphere seen during Al Ahli’s 3-1 win over Al Hilal in the semi-finals.

“The fans are incredible. Against Al Hilal, even with the stadium split, their energy pushed us,” Mahrez said.

“We need that again. With their support, I know we can fight until the last minute.”

If Mahrez and Al Ahli succeed, it would etch his name in the history books as one of the few players to conquer Europe, Africa, and Asia.