Al-Ahli Maintain Perfect Start With Narrow Win Over Auckland FC

Al-Ahli head coach Marino Pusic continued his impressive start in charge as his side secured a fourth straight victory of the season across all competitions with a 1-0 win over Auckland FC on Wednesday.

The result booked Al-Ahli a place in the second round of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they will meet CAF Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on September 19.

Despite extending their winning run, Al-Ahli once again struggled to find their best form. Auckland, the OFC Professional League champions, defended in a compact 4-4-2 formation and spent long periods deep in their own half, making it difficult for the Saudi side to create clear opportunities.

King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah was filled with Al-Ahli supporters, who produced an impressive double tifo during the first half. Messages reading “Fight for the badge” and “Snatch it” added to the atmosphere, although the match itself produced little excitement for long periods.

Pusic’s approach has brought a noticeable change in Al-Ahli’s style. Instead of relying heavily on direct passes towards the forwards, as they often did under former coach Matthias Jaissle, the team have looked to maintain possession and find Eduard Spertsyan in the half-spaces.

That approach allowed Auckland to grow into the match after the opening 15 minutes. The visitors showed confidence on the counterattack and created several dangerous moments, forcing goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to make important saves.

Galeno, Spertsyan and Francisco Trincao all had chances for Al-Ahli, but Auckland’s defenders repeatedly blocked efforts before they could seriously threaten goalkeeper Michael Woud.

The second half became slower, with the hot and humid conditions in Jeddah affecting the pace. The breakthrough eventually arrived shortly after the hour mark when Pusic introduced Saleh Abu Al-Shamat and new signing Artem Bondarenko.

Spertsyan played a key role in the goal. After winning possession in his own half, the Armenian midfielder surged forward before sending a precise through ball into the path of Al-Shamat. The substitute calmly finished beneath Woud to give Al-Ahli the lead.

The assist marked Spertsyan’s fourth goal contribution in four matches since joining the club, underlining his immediate impact.

Auckland’s night ended on a sour note when Sam Cosgrove received a straight red card in the 87th minute for a dangerous challenge on Zakaria Hawsawi.

Al-Ahli will now prepare for a difficult Intercontinental Cup meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns. Before that, they face two Saudi Pro League away matches, against Al-Kholood on August 29 and Al-Hilal on September 1.