On Friday, Al Ahly of Egypt secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Al Ittihad, earning them a spot in the Club World Cup semifinals.
Despite Karim Benzema missing a penalty, he later managed to score for the Saudi side.
The African champions are now set to take on Copa Libertadores title holders Fluminense from Brazil in the upcoming semifinal clash on Monday.
In the 21st minute, Al Ahly took the lead as left-back Ali Maloull successfully converted a penalty awarded for a handball committed by Al Ittihad defender Hassan Kadesh.
In their quest for an equalizer, Marcelo Gallardo’s team earned a penalty for handball, this time by Al Ahly defender Mohamed Abdelmonem. Despite the opportunity, Al Ittihad’s & ex-Real Madrid striker Benzema was unable to capitalize, as his shot was skillfully saved by Al Ahly and Egypt’s Top Keeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
Al Ahly extended their advantage when Hussein El Shahat skillfully curled the ball into the net just before the hour mark, courtesy of an assist from Kahraba. Three minutes later, Kahraba executed a cross-shot, leading to Emam Ashour finding the back of the net following a swift counter-attack.
Making their first appearance in the tournament since reaching the semifinals in 2005, the Saudi champions concluded their campaign with a late consolation goal from Benzema. This occurred just after Al Ahly’s Anthony Modeste received a red card in the 90th minute.
