African champions Al Ahly have eliminated star-studded Al-Ittihad from the Club World Cup after an impressive 3-1 victory at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.
Despite entering the match as the underdogs, Al Ahly seized control early, securing a lead with Ali Maalool’s penalty in the 21st minute.
Former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema had an opportunity to equalize for the Saudi team just before halftime, but El Shenawy thwarted his attempt.
In the second half, the Red Devils expanded their lead with goals from Hussein El Shahat and Eman Ashour within three minutes of each other.
With three goals in under an hour, the Egyptians established dominance, managing the game despite Al-Ittihad’s persistent attacking efforts.
In the moments leading up to the final whistle, French forward Anthony Modeste received a red card, leaving Al Ahly with ten players on the field. Despite Benzema’s late goal, the 11-time African champions secured advancement to the third round.
In the initial round, Al-Ittihad emerged victorious against Auckland City FC, with both Benzema and N’Golo Kante finding the target.
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