Al-Taawoun eye continental glory in AFC Champions League Two

AUSTRALIA: Wolves Park may not have the grandeur of other stadiums in Saudi Arabia, but it lacks nothing when it comes to drama — especially in Al-Taawoun’s run to the AFC Champions League Two semi-finals.

The 6,000-capacity stadium on the northern edges of Buraidah will on Tuesday host arguably the biggest game in the team’s history, 2019 King’s Cup final aside.

This is just the fourth time they have featured in Asian competition. While the ACL Two may be second tier, behind the AFC Champions League Elite, the new continental format means it is far more prestigious than its former incarnation, the AFC Cup.

After topping their group with five wins from six, Al-Taawoun faced Qatar’s Al-Wakrah in the Round of 16. After 2-2 draws across both legs, penalties decided the outcome — with Al-Taawoun advancing 4-3 after a thrilling climax in front of a raucous home crowd.

The drama of that night was not only matched but surpassed when they faced Iranian side Tractor in the quarterfinal. After a scoreless game in Iran, Al-Taawoun were confident of victory in front of a capacity crowd at Wolves Park.

A see-sawing battle ended 1-1 after 90 minutes, with both sides scoring again in extra time. Once more, penalties would test the nerves of the Al-Taawoun faithful who packed the stands.

Reserve goalkeeper Abdulquddus Atiah, deputizing for the injured Mailson, pulled off a huge save to deny Sajjad Ashouri and help his club through to a continental semifinal.

It was a moment that reduced interim coach Mohammed Al-Abdali to tears, pictured sitting in the center circle long after the final whistle had blown, as he took in the enormity of the moment. The rest of the ground was filled with wild celebrations.

“I thank the Al-Taawoun