Al-Ahli’s Asian Champions League glory repeats Liverpool feat for Firmino
Brazilian named MVP after he inspires Saudi club to a first continental title, six years after winning European version with Reds
Roberto Firmino said he was proud of making history with his Saudi club and becoming an Asian Champions League winner, six years after lifting the prestigious European equivalent with Liverpool.
The 33-year-old Brazilian forward was an important member of Jurgen Klopp’s side who won the Uefa Champions League in 2019.
And Firmino was named the AFC Champions League’s MVP after inspiring Al-Ahli to beat Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 on Saturday as the Jeddah club became Asian champions for the first time.
“I’m very happy and very proud of the team,” Firmino said. “Happy to make history here and able to repay the support of the club, family and friends.
“I’m very grateful and I feel privileged to be given this talent and opportunity. I always do my best to help my teammates and my team.”
With the win, Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy and Riyad Mahrez become the first players to capture both Asian club football’s premier title and its European equivalent.