Al Shorta suffered a heavy 5-0 home defeat to Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli SFC in the AFC Champions League Elite on December 23, 2025. This result was a stark reality check for the Iraqi side, as Al-Ahli's attacking firepower proved far too potent, delivering a masterclass in clinical finishing on the continental stage. The Saudi team took control early, scoring two quick goals to deflate the home crowd. Al Shorta's defense, usually resilient, was torn apart by swift passing and movement, conceding three more times in a one-sided second half. The match highlighted the quality gap that can exist in the Elite competition, with Al-Ahli's star forwards running riot. For Al Shorta, it was a day to forget, severely damaging their goal difference and knockout stage aspirations.