Franck Kessie Scores on AFCON Return as Al Ahli Thump Al Tai in Saudi Arabia: Video

• Franck Kessie is back at scoring goals for Al Ahli FC
• The AFCON star helped Al Ahli to victory over Al Tai
• Kessie starred as Ivory Coast won the 2023 AFCON

Franck Kessie announced his return to the Saudi Pro League with a goal as Al Ahli strolled to victory against Al Tai to keep the pressure on Al Nassr and Al Hilal.

The Ivory Coast AFCON winner rejoined his teammates on Thursday after inspiring the West African nation to success on home soil.

Kessie was handed a starting place in Saturday's game at the Prince Abdul Aziz bin Musa'ed Stadium.

The former AC Milan and Barcelona star sealed the win for Al Ahli after a spirited comeback performance by the Saudi giants.

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In a video shared on social media, Kessie headed home after Al Tai failed to clear their line late in the game.

Meanwhile, in a thrilling encounter, Al Tai opened the scoring through Ghanaian midfielder Bernard Mensah, who raced past three players before slotting home in the 43rd minute.

Al Ahli responded immediately through former Liverpool striker Roberto Firminio after connecting to Riyad Mahrez's assist.

He then doubled the lead on the hour mark before Mahrez went from provider to scorer with nine minutes remaining.

Kessie extended the advantage with two minutes left to crown a majestic performance, per ESPN.

Al Ahli welcomes AFCON star Kessie

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Franck Kessie received a befitting welcome at Al Ahli FC following his return from the Africa Cup of Nations as champion with the Ivory Coast.

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The Saudi-based midfielder netted the important equaliser as the Elephants came from a goal down to beat the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The former AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder was important for the host nation, especially in the elimination stages, scoring the goal that eliminated Senegal from the competition.

Ivory Coast beat Nigeria to win AFCON

Sports Brief also reported that Sebastien Haller scored the winner as Ivory Coast came from a goal down to beat Nigeria in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles took the lead before half-time through William Troost-Ekong, but Franck Kessie levelled after the break before Haller finished off the game in style.

The host nation dominated the early exchanges with the Brighton forward coming close after meeting a cross from the left sent on by the lively Simon Adingra.