Al-Ahli FC to Face New Zealand’s Auckland City FC on Wednesday in FIFA Intercontinental Cup First Round

   Jeddah, August 25, 2026, SPA -- Al-Ahli FC will face New Zealand’s Auckland City FC on Wednesday at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah in the first round of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026.
   Al-Ahli enters the match as Asian champions, having won the continental title for the second consecutive season under former German coach Matthias Jaissle. He subsequently moved to English side Newcastle United and was replaced by Bosnian coach Marino Pusić.
   Pusić has made a strong start, leading Al-Ahli to three consecutive wins this season. The team defeated Al-Anwar Club in the Round of 32 of the Saudi King Cup before securing 4-0 and 1-0 victories over Abha Club and Diriyah Club, respectively, in the first two rounds of the ROSHN Saudi League.
   Al-Ahli will look to capitalize on home advantage and the support of its fans to make a strong start to its campaign in the global tournament. The Asian champions will also rely on their defensive solidity, having conceded just one goal in their first three matches of the season.
   The winner will advance to face African champions Mamelodi Sundowns FC of South Africa in the final of the African–Asian–Pacific Cup on September 19.
   -- SPA