Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, and Riyad Mahrez Make History as First Stars to Win Both Asian and European Champions Leagues.

In a historic achievement that has captivated the football world, Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, and Riyad Mahrez have cemented their places in footballing history as the first players to win both the prestigious UEFA Champions League in Europe and the AFC Champions League in Asia.

Their remarkable feat came after Firmino inspired Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli to a thrilling final win over Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the AFC Champions League, further elevating the trio’s already storied careers.

The Road to Glory: From Europe to Asia

The careers of Firmino, Mendy, and Mahrez have been nothing short of exceptional. Each player has experienced significant success in Europe, where they starred for their respective clubs in the UEFA Champions League, Europe’s most coveted club competition.

Firmino, known for his dynamic style of play and ability to link up with teammates, became a key figure in Liverpool’s attack.

His performances in the Champions League were instrumental in Liverpool’s triumph in the 2018-19 season, where they lifted their sixth European crown after a thrilling final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Mendy, the Senegalese goalkeeper, earned worldwide acclaim for his heroic performances with Chelsea during their 2020-21 Champions League run, where he played a pivotal role in helping the Blues defeat Manchester City in the final.

His composure, reflexes, and shot-stopping ability made him one of the best goalkeepers in Europe during that period.

Mahrez, meanwhile, enjoyed considerable success with Manchester City, contributing to their first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2023.

The Algerian winger was an essential figure in City’s attacking force, scoring crucial goals, including a memorable performance in the semifinal against Paris Saint-Germain, and showcasing his dribbling skills and ability to break down opposition defenses.

However, in a move that highlighted their hunger for success and ambition to challenge themselves on a global scale, all three players made high-profile moves to clubs in Asia.

Firmino, Mendy, and Mahrez’s moves to Saudi Arabian clubs — Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli, respectively — marked a new chapter in their careers.

While these moves generated considerable attention due to the growing stature of the Saudi Pro League, few could have predicted that their efforts would eventually culminate in a landmark achievement on the continental stage.

Firmino’s Heroics in the AFC Champions League Final

The culmination of the trio’s Asian adventure arrived on a thrilling night in Riyadh, where Al-Ahli, guided by Firmino’s brilliance, triumphed over Kawasaki Frontale in a gripping AFC Champions League final.

Firmino’s contributions were nothing short of extraordinary, as he played a central role in the attack and delivered a performance befitting his status as one of the finest Brazilian forwards of his generation.

The final itself was a tense affair. Kawasaki Frontale, the perennial J-League champions, were determined to cause an upset, but Firmino’s clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and leadership on the field ensured Al-Ahli’s dominance.

In the opening minutes of the game, it was Firmino who created the first breakthrough, curling a brilliant cross into the box that led to an early goal for his side.

As the game progressed, Firmino continued to pull the strings for his teammates, combining well with his fellow forwards and orchestrating the flow of play.

With the score tied at 1-1 late in the match, it was Firmino’s composure in front of goal that sealed the victory.

He latched onto a through ball and coolly slotted it past Kawasaki’s goalkeeper to give Al-Ahli a 2-1 lead.

His goal proved to be the match-winner, securing Al-Ahli’s first-ever AFC Champions League title and completing a remarkable chapter in Firmino’s career, one that now includes victories in both the European and Asian equivalents of the continental championship.

Mendy’s Masterclass in Goal

Edouard Mendy’s role in Al-Ahli’s triumph cannot be understated.

The Senegalese goalkeeper played an instrumental part in his team’s success, producing several crucial saves throughout the competition and maintaining his composure under pressure.

In the final, Mendy was called upon to make a series of key saves, particularly during Kawasaki Frontale’s offensive surge in the second half.

His leadership at the back, coupled with his ability to command his area, was pivotal in ensuring that Al-Ahli kept their opponents at bay.

Mendy’s performances throughout the tournament were a testament to his quality, and his presence in goal gave his teammates the confidence they needed to push forward and claim the title.

Mahrez’s Contribution to Al-Ahli’s Success

Riyad Mahrez, who had joined Al-Ahli in a high-profile move from Manchester City, also played a crucial part in their AFC Champions League journey.

His creativity, technical ability, and knack for scoring important goals were vital assets to his team.

Mahrez’s flair on the ball and precise delivery from wide areas contributed significantly to Al-Ahli’s attacking play, with his presence often stretching opposition defenses and creating space for his teammates to exploit.

While he didn’t score in the final, Mahrez’s influence on the game was felt in the build-up to Firmino’s match-winning goal, as he provided the initial assist with a perfectly weighted pass to set up the Brazilian striker.

A New Legacy

The achievement of winning both the European and Asian Champions Leagues is an unprecedented feat in modern football.

Firmino, Mendy, and Mahrez have now etched their names into the annals of football history as players who have triumphed on two different continents in the most prestigious club competitions.

This landmark achievement highlights the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League and the increasing allure of the Middle East as a destination for top footballing talent.

Their success also symbolizes a shift in the global footballing landscape, with players increasingly seeking new challenges in diverse markets.

As the Saudi Pro League continues to develop and attract top-tier talent, the influence of these players in shaping the future of football in the region cannot be overstated.

For Firmino, Mendy, and Mahrez, the triumph in the AFC Champions League is the crowning glory of a career that spans two continents, numerous trophies, and countless memories.

Their legacy is secure, and their status as pioneers in bridging European and Asian football will be remembered for years to come.