Algerian international Riyad Mahrez continued his dazzling performances for Al-Ahli, reaffirming his high level of skill as one of the team's key players this season. This brilliance was clearly on display in the fiery encounter between Al-Ahli and Al-Shabab in the 22nd round of the Saudi Professional League, where Mahrez made his mark by scoring one goal and assisting another, leading his team in one of the most exciting matches of the season.

A fiery first half and Al-Ahly's dominance

Al-Shabab Stadium in Riyadh witnessed an exceptional night of football, as the first half of the "classic" match was marked by a rare goal-scoring spree, ending with Al-Ahli leading 4-2. Amidst this attacking onslaught, Riyad Mahrez was the maestro who orchestrated the tempo of the game, utilizing his vast experience in European leagues to cope with the pressure of big matches. He established himself as an extraordinary star and directly contributed to tipping the scales in his team's favor before halftime.

The language of numbers: Mahrez shines with Al Ahly

Mahrez's brilliance in this match was no fluke; it was the continuation of a series of strong performances since joining Al Ahly. According to official statistics for Mahrez's appearances with Al Ahly this season across all competitions, his numbers are as follows:

• Number of matches: 28 matches.
• Total goal contributions: 16 contributions.
• Goals scored: 6 goals.
• Assists: 10 passes.

These figures reflect the pivotal role played by "Pride of the Arabs" in coach Matthias Jiesle's attacking system, as he is considered the most influential player in the final third of the field, whether through direct finishing or creating opportunities for his teammates.

From Manchester to Jeddah... added artistic value

In the broader context, Riyad Mahrez's presence in the Saudi Professional League represents a significant qualitative addition to the competition, given his illustrious career, most notably his historic treble with Manchester City before his arrival in Jeddah. The transfer of a player of his stature, generating such media and fan attention, was not merely a marketing ploy, but a tremendous boost to Al-Ahli's squad. He brought with him a winning mentality and the ability to deliver decisive performances in crucial moments, as was clearly demonstrated in the match against Al-Shabab.

Mahrez's impact on Al Ahly's ambitions

Mahrez's contributions take on added importance at this stage of the season, as Al Ahli strives to solidify its position at the top of the table, secure an Asian Champions League spot, and compete strongly on all fronts. Having a player with individual brilliance, such as dribbling skills, accurate shooting, and intelligent passing, gives the team a clear advantage over direct rivals. With the league entering its crucial stages, Al Ahli fans are placing great hope in Mahrez's magic to continue accumulating points and fulfilling the aspirations of the passionate Al Ahli supporters.

Algerian international Riyad Mahrez continued his dazzling performances for Al-Ahli Saudi FC, reaffirming his high level of skill and status as one of the most prominent signings in the history of the Saudi Professional League. This came after Mahrez made an immediate and impactful contribution during the thrilling derby match against Al-Shabab in the 22nd round of the competition, scoring one goal and providing another with his characteristic brilliance.

A fiery first half and Al-Ahly's dominance

The match, held at Al-Shabab Club Stadium in Riyadh, was incredibly exciting, particularly in the first half, which ended with a resounding 4-2 victory for Al-Ahli. Al-Ahli delivered a dominant attacking performance, spearheaded by Mahrez and his teammates. The Algerian star was the driving force behind their offensive operations, dictating the tempo of the game and directly contributing to his team's success in this crucial encounter.

Riyad Mahrez's numbers with Al Ahly: The numbers don't lie

Mahrez's brilliance in this match was no fluke; it was the continuation of an exceptional season for the "Desert Warrior" with Al Ahly. According to official statistics for Mahrez's participation in various competitions this season, his numbers are as follows:

• Number of matches: 28 matches.
• Total goal contributions: 16 contributions.
• Goals scored: 6 goals.
• Assists: 10 passes.

These statistics confirm that Mahrez is not just a goalscorer, but a top-class playmaker, as the number of his assists exceeds his goals, reflecting his collective role in serving the team's attacking system.

Technical value and Mahrez's impact on Al Ahly's project

Since joining Al Ahly from Manchester City after their historic treble-winning season, Riyad Mahrez has added a tremendous technical and tactical dimension to the team. Mahrez is a cornerstone of Al Ahly's project to return to winning ways, as the coach and his teammates rely on him to unlock tight defenses, especially in big matches that demand individual brilliance and extensive international experience.

The significance of these contributions lies in the context of the fierce competition witnessed in the Saudi League this season, as Al-Ahli strives to solidify its place in the top four and secure an Asian Champions League spot, leveraging the accumulated experience of its international stars. Mahrez's continued upward trajectory is a positive sign for Al-Ahli fans, who are counting on him heavily to deliver decisive results in the final stages of the season, both in the league and in other available competitions.

All eyes of football fans across the African continent are on the African football stadiums, eagerly awaiting the thrilling final round of the CAF Champions League . This round is particularly crucial for five Arab clubs, whose ambitions range from securing top spot to fiercely battling for a place in the quarterfinals, in a competition that once again underscores the dominance of North African clubs on the continental football scene.

The context of the competition and the importance of the decisive round

This edition of the tournament holds immense strategic importance, not only for its technical and historical value, but also because it serves as the main gateway to winning the most prestigious continental title. With three teams already qualified – Pyramids FC of Egypt (the defending champions and Group A leaders), Al Ahly of Egypt (record holders with 12 titles), and Stade Malien (the tournament's surprise package) – the battle for the remaining spots is fierce. This round will be a true test of the mental and technical abilities of both players and coaches, as there is no room for error.

Group Three: A Clash of Titans and Complex Calculations

Group C is the most exciting and competitive, with all four teams still mathematically in contention for qualification. Al-Hilal of Sudan leads the group with 8 points, followed by MC Alger with 7, and Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa with 6. All eyes will be on Pretoria, where MC Alger will face a tough away match against Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

The match carries a special emotional and tactical significance for Mouloudia's coach, Rulani Mokwena, who faces his former team with whom he achieved domestic and continental glory. Despite the warm feelings expressed by the Sundowns players towards their former coach, the outcome will be decided on the pitch. The Algerian team only needs a draw to secure qualification, while Sundowns has no option but to win, especially given the internal crisis the team is experiencing following the suspension of performance analyst Mario Macha.

Esperance of Tunisia: A Journey of Self-Discovery

In Group D, Tunisian side Espérance de Tunis faces a must-win or draw when they host Angolan club Atlético de Luanda at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium in Radès. The Tunisian giants enter the match under exceptional circumstances following the dismissal of coach Maher Kanzari and the temporary appointment of Frenchman Christian Braconi. Espérance hopes to capitalize on home advantage to break the tie with their visitors (both teams currently have 6 points) and join group leaders Stade Malien in the quarterfinals, in a match that represents a lifeline for the team's continental campaign.

Cairo summit: The battle for the top spot between Al-Ahly and the Royal Army

Cairo International Stadium will host an all-Arab clash in Group B, pitting Egypt's Al Ahly against Morocco's FAR Rabat. While both teams are virtually guaranteed qualification, the battle for the top spot in the group will be fierce. Al Ahly enters the match leading with 9 points, followed closely by FAR Rabat with 8. Al Ahly's Danish coach, Jesse Thorup, is expected to continue his rotation policy, giving opportunities to players like Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane and Youssef Belamri. Meanwhile, FAR Rabat's Portuguese coach, Alexandre Santos, understands that a positive result would bolster his team's stability and reaffirm the strength of the Moroccan side.

Renaissance Berkane... the last chance

In Group A, Morocco's RS Berkane will be aiming for nothing less than a win when they host Nigeria's Rivers United. After stumbling in their last two matches, the Moroccan side desperately needs a victory to break their tie with Zambia's Power Dynamos (both on 7 points) and secure the second qualifying spot behind group leaders Pyramids FC. Despite the absence of some key players, coach Moine Chaabani is counting on the return of Yassine Labhiri and Tayeb Boukhriss to salvage the situation in the team's debut Champions League campaign.