DOHA — Al-Ahly’s hopes of reaching the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final were dashed after a heartbreaking 6-5 penalty shootout loss to Pachuca in Doha Saturday night.
The Egyptian giants showed resilience throughout the goalless 120 minutes but fell short in the decisive shootout.
Goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy delivered a standout performance, denying Pachuca’s Oussama Idrissi and Nelson Deossa with crucial saves during regular time.
In extra time, Percy Tau set up Mahmoud Kahraba for the game’s best chance, but Pachuca’s goalkeeper Carlos Moreno produced a brilliant stop.
The penalty shootout was a rollercoaster, with Pachuca missing their first two attempts.
However, Moreno’s sudden-death saves and two missed penalties by Al-Ahly sealed the Mexican side’s place in the final against Real Madrid.
Despite the loss, Al-Ahly can hold their heads high after a strong showing in the tournament and will now turn their focus to domestic and continental competitions.
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