Match preview

Vissel Kobe are enjoying a strong domestic campaign in Japan this season. After 11 league matches, they have collected 25 points, putting them top of the table with a six-point lead over Gamba. Last season, they reached the Emperor’s Cup final but fell short against Machida (1-3).

In the AFC Champions League, the Japanese side have shown resilience and quality, overcoming Seoul (3-1) and edging past Al-Sadd after a dramatic tie (3-3, 5-4 on penalties) to reach the semifinals. Their consistency and attacking output make them a dangerous opponent.

Al-Ahli, meanwhile, are also in excellent form. The Saudi side have accumulated 66 points from 28 league matches, placing them third in the Pro League, though still trailing leaders Al-Nassr by 10 points with six games remaining.

In the King’s Cup, they made it to the semifinals but were eliminated by Al-Hilal on penalties. On their path to the AFC Champions League semis, Al-Ahli secured wins over Al-Duhail (1-0) and Johor (2-1), demonstrating their ability to grind out results in tight contests.

Head-to-head

This will be the first-ever official meeting between the two sides.

Key facts & trends

Four of Vissel Kobe’s last five matches have produced over 2.5 goals.

Al-Ahli have conceded in five of their last seven matches.

Vissel Kobe are unbeaten in 11 consecutive games (excluding penalty shootouts).

Al-Ahli have lost just once in their last 23 matches.

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