Jesus slams referee after Al-Hilal’s Asian Champions League exit

JEDDAH: Al-Hilal head coach Jorge Jesus criticized the officiating after his team crashed out of the Asian Champions League Elite on Tuesday, following a 3-1 defeat to Saudi rivals Al-Ahli in Jeddah.

First-half goals from Roberto Firmino and Ivan Toney gave Al-Ahli a commanding lead and paved the way for their first final appearance since 2012. Although Salem Al-Dawsari pulled one back for Al-Hilal before the break, the Riyadh side struggled to regain momentum, especially after Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off in the 61st minute.

Jesus pointed fingers at Jordanian referee Adham Makhadmeh, saying, “The referee wasn’t at as good a level as the teams. I think he was the one behind us having such a bad performance.” He added that the match was filled with tension and disputes, though he ultimately accepted responsibility, stating, “I’m the one responsible.”

Makhadmeh issued 11 yellow cards in a heated contest, including the double booking for Koulibaly. Al-Hilal’s hopes faded further after substitute Hamad Al-Tuhayfan conceded a penalty, only for Yassine Bounou to deny Franck Kessie’s effort.

Al-Ahli’s win sends them to a long-awaited final, while Al-Hilal are left to reflect on a frustrating night overshadowed by disciplinary issues and officiating controversy.(Reuters)