Al Ahli secured their place in the AFC Champions League round of 16 following a 2-1 victory over Al Ain, thanks to a brilliant second-half from Ivan Toney.

The first half ended goalless, but head coach Matthias Jaissle’s decision to introduce Toney in the 65th minute proved worthy. The former Brentford striker broke the deadlock with a superb header, capitalizing on Riyad Mahrez’s pinpoint delivery from a free kick.

Just four minutes later, the duo combined again, with Toney finishing off another assist from Mahrez to double Al Ahli’s lead.

Although Alejandro Romero pulled one back for Al Ain in the final moments, reigniting the home crowd’s hopes, Al Ahli held firm to claim a hard-fought victory.

The result not only secured Al Ahli’s progression to the next stage of the competition but also left the holders Al Ain languishing at the bottom of their group. After five games, the UAE side has managed to collect just one point, leaving their campaign in disarray.

By: Ibidunni Doyinsola