Preview: Al Shorta SC vs. Al Ahli Saudi Club in AFC Champions League

DOHA, Qatar (Interstat) — A clash of regional titans is set for Monday as Iraq’s Al Shorta SC hosts Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli Saudi Club in a pivotal AFC Champions League World stage match.

The showdown at a neutral venue, necessitated by security considerations, presents a stark contrast in recent form. Al Ahli arrives as a heavy statistical favorite, projected by Interstat’s simulator to secure a 3-0 victory.

Al Ahli seeks to rebound from a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Sharjah FC on Nov. 24. That result snapped a generally strong run that included a 2-1 away win at Al Sadd on Nov. 4 and a 4-0 rout of Al Gharafa on Oct. 20. Their attack has proven potent, netting four goals in matches against PFK Nasaf and Al Gharafa this season.

Conversely, Al Shorta SC enters reeling from a 4-0 thrashing by Al Hilal on Nov. 25. That loss extended a concerning pattern; the Iraqi side has lost three of its last four outings, including a 1-0 defeat to Deutscher Fussba and a 4-1 loss to Al Ittihad SCSC. Their attack has struggled, failing to score in three of those four matches.

The match is a critical juncture in group play for both clubs. Al Ahli will look to its offensive firepower to control the game and secure three points before turning its focus to a heavy February schedule in the competition, with matches against Al Wahda FC and Shabab Al Ahli next.

For Al Shorta SC, the task is to find a defensive resolve and attacking spark that has been absent. A positive result is vital for momentum before facing PFK Nasaf and Al Duhail in February.

Historically, the Saudi clubs have dominated recent editions of Asia’s premier club competition, adding pressure on Al Ahli to perform. Al Shorta SC, representing Iraq’s proud football tradition, aims to defy the projections and secure a landmark result.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EST) on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.