FIFA Club World Cup: Ahly thump star-studded Ittihad to make semi-final

Al Ahly have defeated Saudi juggernauts Al Ittihad 3-1in the FIFA Club World Cup the quarter-finals.

Ahly came into this edition having clinched the bronze medal three times (in 2006, 2020, and 2021), while Ittihad Jeddah are making their second Club World Cup appearance, having finished fourth in the 2005 edition.

Ali Maaloul put the Egyptian side 1-0 up from the spot in the 21st minute but just before half-time, Benzema had the chance to equalise with a penalty of his own.

However, the French striker had his spot kick saved by goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

Benzema’s miss proved costly for the Saudi Pro League outfit as goals either side of the hour mark from Hussein El Shahat and Emam Ashour gave Al Ahly a 3-0 lead on Friday night.

Benzema chipped in with a stoppage time goal to make it 3-1, but the damage had already been done and Al Ahly now advance to the semi-finals of the Club World Cup. The African champions face FluminenseFC in the semi-finals.