Al-Ahli Edge Auckland FC to Advance in FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia - Reigning Asian champions Al-Ahli Saudi FC kicked off the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026™ with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Auckland FC at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium. Substitute Saleh Abu Al-Shamat produced the match-winning moment within two minutes of entering the pitch, securing Al-Ahli's ticket to the official FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup showdown.

After a cagey first half in which OFC Professional League champions Auckland FC kept defensive spaces tight, Marino Pušić made tactical changes on the hour mark that immediately paid dividends. In minute 63’, midfielder Eduard Spertsyan broke free down the right wing and played a precise low pass across the box. Abu Al-Shamat, who had been substituted on just two minutes earlier, struck it first-time into the corner of the net with his very first touch of the match.

Before Fulltime, Auckland FC’s hopes of late drama evaporated when striker Sam Cosgrove was shown a direct red card following a late challenge, forcing the New Zealand club to finish with ten men.

With this victory in the preliminary round, Al-Ahli progresses to the second round of the global tournament and faces Mamelodi Sundowns, CAF Champions. The winner will be crowned official FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup champions and advance to the final stages (FIFA Challenger Cup) against CONMEBOL / Concacaf opposition.