RSL clubs flying high at halfway stage in Champions League Elite

Midway through the AFC Champions League Elite group phase, Saudi Arabian teams are leading the standings, with Al Hilal and Al Ahli occupying the top two spots. All three representatives from the Roshn Saudi League secured victories in round four of the competition, reinforcing their strong positions in the West Zone.

Al Hilal continues to dominate as the only team in the entire competition, both East and West, with a perfect 100 percent record after four matches. Their recent 2-1 away win against Qatar's Al Gharafa on Monday extended their unbeaten start to the 2025-26 season across all competitions. Goals from Salem Al Dawsari, the recently crowned AFC Asian Player of the Year, and young Brazilian Kaio Cesar contributed to this victory, marking their ninth consecutive win. Under manager Simone Inzaghi, the record four-time Asian champions are performing cohesively and efficiently.

Kaio Cesar, named Player of the Match against Al Gharafa, emphasized the team's collective effort, stating that the victory reflects their hard work throughout the week and the season. He expressed his commitment to giving his all in every opportunity and highlighted the importance of teamwork in achieving success.

Al Ahli, the reigning Asian champions, hold the second position in the standings and remain unbeaten through four Champions League matches, with three wins and a draw. In their latest fixture on Tuesday, they also triumphed 2-1 in Qatar against Al Sadd, thanks to goals from Riyad Mahrez and Matheus Goncalves, securing crucial points in the group phase.

Manager Matthias Jaissle of Al Ahli commented on the strategic approach to the match, noting that the team adapted to Al Sadd's playing style by alternating between high and low pressing. He affirmed that the primary objective of securing three points was achieved and expressed confidence in maintaining this performance level in future matches to pursue further successes.