Mahrez issues warning ahead of ACL final

They will face Japan's Machida Zelvia in the final

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Afp April 25, 2026 1 min read

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JEDDAH:

Riyad Mahrez says Al Ahli have achieved "something incredible" in reaching back-to-back Asian Champions League finals, but warned his side not to underestimate tournament debutants Machida Zelvia when they meet for the trophy in Jeddah on Saturday.

Al Ahli, who 12 months ago defeated Kawasaki Frontale to claim a first continental crown, go into a second successive final against Japanese opponents as favourites, not least because the Saudi side are playing at their home King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.

However, Mahrez reminded the Asian champions that nothing is a given, especially after Machida's remarkable run to the final.

"Really happy to be in the final again, two years in a row, at home with our fans. So looking forward to the game," said Mahrez at Friday's eve of match press conference in Jeddah.

"It's important for everyone to not take it for granted because being in the (Asian) Champions League final two years in a row is something incredible.

"But at the end you have to play the game tomorrow, (and) you have to win it. We will do everything to do that," added the 35-year-old Algerian international.

Making their first appearance in Asia's premier club competition, Machida have yet to concede in three knockout matches in Jeddah, even if their semi-final victory against Shabab Al Ahli ended in hugely controversial fashion.

The UAE side had an injury-time equaliser disallowed for a bizarre VAR decision and later had an appeal to replay the game rejected by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

Mahrez, also a UEFA Champions League winner with Manchester City, said: "Because we played last year, this season we come with a bit more calm and confidence. But that doesn't mean we will not be really focused.

"It will be really, really difficult. (Machida) deserve to be there. They took their chance 100 percent. AFP