Al Ahly Crashes Out of Club World Cup in 8-Goal Thriller Against Porto
NEW JERSEY – A night of individual heroism turned into collective heartbreak at MetLife Stadium as Al Ahly SC were sensationally eliminated from the FIFA Club World Cup, caught on the wrong side of a chaotic and unforgettable 4-4 draw with FC Porto.
Wessam Abou Ali delivered a performance for the ages, netting a magnificent hat-trick that seemed destined to carry the Egyptian giants forward. But a devastating last-minute thunderbolt from Porto’s Pepê shattered their dreams, meaning both clubs exit the tournament after producing a contest that will be remembered as an instant classic.
In front of a stadium painted red by their passionate traveling supporters, Al Ahlyâ€s intentions were clear. Abou Ali drew first blood, igniting the crowd with a cool finish just 15 minutes in. Though Portoâ€s 18-year-old phenom Rodrigo Mora hit back with a dazzling solo effort, Al Ahly seized control before the half. When Zizo was felled in the box, Abou Ali stepped up with nerves of steel to bury the penalty and give his side a 2-1 lead at the break.
The second half erupted in absolute madness. In a frantic three-minute spell, the scoreline swung wildly. First, Portoâ€s William Gomes unleashed a rocket from distance to level the score (50â€). Mere moments later, Abou Ali rose highest, completing his heroic hat-trick with a soaring header to reclaim the lead (51â€). Yet, Porto simply would not surrender, striking back instantly as Samu Aghehowa headed home from a corner to make it 3-3 (53â€).
Al Ahly surged ahead once more when Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane produced a moment of pure genius, a stunning curling strike that looked to be the glorious winner and a certain contender for goal of the tournament (64â€).
But with the clock ticking down and Al Ahly moments from a famous victory, disaster struck. As the match reached a fever pitch, Pepê found a pocket of space and unleashed a vicious, unstoppable drive into the bottom corner in the 89th minute, silencing the Al Ahly faithful and delivering a soul-crushing equalizer.
The final whistle confirmed the cruel reality. Despite the breathtaking fireworks and a heroic effort, the single point was not enough. Al Ahly, after a night of dazzling football, were out.
Player of the Match: Wessam Abou Ali (Al Ahly FC) – A clinical and heroic hat-trick on the world stage, a performance that deserved a better fate.
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المصدر: نيل سبورتس