Central Coast Mariners clinched the AFC Cup 2023/24 title by narrowly defeating Lebanon’s Al Ahed FC 1-0 at Sultan Qaboos Sports City on Sunday, courtesy of a late goal from substitute Alou Kuol.
The Mariners have now become the second Australian team to win an AFC title, following Western Sydney Wanderers’ triumph in the AFC Champions League a decade ago.
This final marked the end of the AFC Cup in its current form, which will be replaced by a three-tier competition structure next season: the AFC Champions League Elite, AFC Champions League 2, and AFC Challenge League.
The game began with the expected tension of a continental final, but Al Ahed, the 2019 champions, were the first to threaten after 25 minutes.
A swift passing move on the left set up Mohammed Al Hallak, who crossed for Lee Erwin. His header was on target, but Mariners goalkeeper Danny Vukovic produced a diving save to deny him.
The Mariners responded quickly as Josh Nisbet made a move into Al Ahed’s box from the left, delivering a cross intended for Ryan Edmondson.
He missed the connection, leaving the ball to reach Miguel Di Pizio, who was unable to capitalise due to a weak finish.
Neither goalkeeper was seriously tested before half-time, with Matar comfortably handling Jacob Farrell’s long-range shot, while Vukovic made an easy save from Mohammad Al Marmour’s header.
The second half mirrored the first, with Edmondson’s powerful shot being the most notable effort in the early stages.
With 10 minutes to go, Al Ahed’s centre-back Khalil Khamis displayed his defensive prowess, blocking Nesbit’s shot and then bravely stopping Ronald Barcellos’ follow-up.
Meanwhile, at the other end, Hasan Srour’s shot from inside the box hit the side netting, keeping the score level.
The Mariners finally broke the deadlock in the 84th minute.
Kuol, who had come on as a substitute 20 minutes earlier, latched onto a precise through ball from Barcellos, slipping it through the legs of goalkeeper Matar to seal the victory.
The Mariners held firm through the eight minutes of added time to secure their first continental trophy, relying on some stellar defending and last-ditch tackles to keep Al Ahed at bay.
This remarkable team now sets their sights on the A-League finals series and a chance at a triple win in one season.
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