Al-Ahli won the all-Saudi semi-final clash in the AFC Champions League, as Matthias Jaissle’s side secured a 3-1 victory over Al-Hilal to reach the final and now aim for the title.

Jaissle said in the post-match press conference: “We fully deserved the win. We knew it would be a tough battle, and now we are focused on the final.

At the start of the match, we were in good form. The players were fully concentrated, and we knew what role we would play. We have enough time in the coming days to prepare for the final and most important step.

Jaissle explained his tactical superiority over Al-Hilal’s coach Georges Jesus: “I must respect Jesus. The weaknesses that appear in such matches determine the result, and small details make the difference. My team’s performance today was excellent, and we played in a great way that led to victory.”

Jaissle responded to Jesus’ surprise at the inclusion of defender Alioski in the starting lineup: “I think it was good; we succeeded in what we planned.

Every team has its strengths and weaknesses, and I am happy that we managed to use our strengths to achieve victory.

When asked about his preference to face Al-Nassr or Kawasaki in the final, Jaissle said: “It doesn’t matter. What matters is that we have 24 hours to recover. When you play in the semi-finals and final, you must focus regardless of the opponent and pressure.”

Jaissle concluded by praising teamwork: “This is an achievement for the entire team. The players, coaches, and managers—everyone played a part. We should all be proud of this achievement, not just me and the players. The joy of this victory belongs to everyone.”