Doha:Al Sadd and Al Ahli Saudi FC concluded their AFC Champions League Elite 2026/2027 match with a goalless draw on Monday.
According to Qatar News Agency, the result pushed Al Ahli Saudi FC to eight points after four matches, while Al Sadd secured their second point in the competition. The match witnessed numerous attempts from both sides to break the deadlock. Al Ahli's Artem Bondarenko made an early effort in the 14th minute with a shot from 18 yards that went over the bar.
Al Sadd's Giovani frequently challenged the opposing defense with his speed, but his efforts were neutralized before reaching goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Al Ahli's Eduard Spertsyan’s attempt in the 27th minute narrowly missed the target, while Claudinho forced Mendy into action with a powerful strike shortly after.
Goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham of Al Sadd made a significant impact late in the first half, saving a close-range header from Roger Ibanez in the 39th minute and deflecting Galeno's inswinger against the post shortly after. In the second half, Ivan Toney of Al Ahli missed a close-range opportunity, and a timely intervention by Paulo Otavia prevented a goal in the 66th minute.
Barsham continued his commendable performance by saving a curling shot from substitute Matheus Gonçalves in the 84th minute and comfortably handling Ibrahima Diaby's header and another attempt from Gonçalves in injury time.