Al Ahly Dominates Al-Ittihad in Club World Cup, Secures a Spot in the Semifinals Against Fluminense.
Al Ahly dominates Al-Ittihad in Club World Cup, securing a place in the semifinals against Fluminense.
In a dazzling display on Friday, Egypt's Al Ahly effortlessly secured a 3-1 victory over Al-Ittihad, earning a coveted spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals. The match witnessed a twist of fate as Karim Benzema, despite missing a penalty, eventually redeemed himself with a goal for the Saudi side.
The African champions, Al Ahly, showcased their prowess in the 21st minute when left-back Ali Maaloul calmly converted a penalty, the result of a handball committed by Al-Ittihad defender Hassan Kadesh. With this triumph, Al Ahly is now set to face Copa Libertadores title holders Fluminense of Brazil in a highly anticipated clash in the last four on Monday.
Marcelo Gallardo's squad fought for an equalizer, earning a spot-kick for a handball by Al Ahly defender Mohamed Abdelmonem. Despite the opportunity, Al-Ittihad's ex-Real Madrid striker Benzema faltered, as his shot was superbly thwarted by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
Undeterred, Al-Ahly extended their lead when Hussein El Shahat skillfully curled the ball into the net just before the hour mark, assisted by Kahraba. Three minutes later, in a swift counter-attack, Emam Ashour capitalized on a cross-shot from Kahraba, finding the back of the net.
Making their first appearance in the tournament since reaching the semi-finals in 2005, the Saudi champions concluded their campaign with a last-minute consolation goal from Benzema. This moment occurred just after Al Ahly's Anthony Modeste was sent off in the 90th minute, having come on for Aliou Dieng minutes earlier.
The upcoming Tuesday semi-final features European champions Manchester City against Asian Champions League holders Urawa Red Diamonds, who secured a 1-0 victory over CONCACAF champions Leon earlier on Friday.
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