Al Ahly Finishing third in the FIFA Club World Cup 2023: Al-Ahly’s win over Urawa Red Diamonds in the Club World Cup third-place play-off was entertaining and competitive. Despite losing the lead by two goals to one and missing a penalty, Al-Ahly managed to win 4-2, thus securing the third best position in the tournament for the fourth time.
The Egyptian team has a strong history of doing well in the third-place qualifiers, having achieved similar results in 2006, 2020 and 2021. This success reflects Al-Ahly’s continued quality and competitiveness on the world stage.
Al Ahly Finishing third in the FIFA Club World Cup 2023
Urawa Red Diamonds, representing Japan, also showed their prowess by finishing third in the 2007 edition of the Club World Cup. Their participation in the third place play-off highlights the international diversity and quality of the teams participating in this prestigious competition.
The twists and turns of the match, including Al-Ahly overcoming challenges such as losing by two goals and missing a penalty, added to the drama and excitement of the match. Such competitions often showcase the resilience and skill of the participating teams, creating a spectacular football moment that captivates fans around the world.
Al-Ahly’s third-place finish once again proves its status as a pillar of football, not only in Africa but on the international stage. As they continue to compete at the highest levels, their achievements contribute to the history and legacy of the Club World Cup.
Al Ahly Beat Urawa Red Diamonds 4-2
Urawa Red Diamonds 2 FT 4 Al Ahly
- José Kanté (43′)Alexander Scholz (54′ Pen)
- Yasser Ibrahim (19′)Percy Tau (25′)Yoshio Koizumi (60′ OG)Ali Maâloul (90’+8′)
Al-Ahly took the lead in the 19th minute after a short corner found Mohamed Hany outside the danger zone and his powerful shot was blocked by the goalkeeper and Yasser Ibrahim hit the ball into the net.
Six minutes later, Al-Ahly added their second goal when Atsuki Ito lost the ball in his area and Ahmed Koka’s pass found Percy Tau who had plenty of time to touch before unleashing a powerful shot in front of Shusaku Nishikawa.
As Al-Ahly began to travel, Urawa found the back of the net after José Kanté struck the first volley in the 43rd minute to score in his final match after announcing his retirement in November.
Urawa came out with new confidence after the break and in the 54th minute, Alexander Scholz scored a penalty in the middle and equalized after a handball from Mohammed Hany.
It took Al-Ahly just six minutes to regain the lead, after a poor shot from Ali Maâloul went past Urawa defender Yoshio Koizumi and his own goalkeeper.
In the 75th minute, Al-Ahly had the chance to bring their two goals to one, but Maaloul’s penalty was saved by Nishikawa down the right and kept his team in the match.
Urawa piled on the pressure in the final minutes but failed to find another goal, and the Egyptians secured victory in the ninth minute of extra time when Maaloul finished off his penalty from a free kick.
3rd Place Prize in FIFA Club World Cup 2023
Al Ahly will receive USD $2.5 million for finishing third in the FIFA Club World Cup.
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