Al Ahli Tripoli have once again written their name into Libyan football history after claiming the 2025 Libya Cup with an emphatic 3–0 victory over long-time rivals Al Ahli Benghazi. The final, one of the most anticipated matches on the North African football calendar, was staged in Egypt behind closed doors due to persistent security concerns in Libya, yet the absence of supporters did little to diminish the intensity or importance of the occasion.
The match attracted widespread attention across Africa, not only because of the fierce rivalry between the two clubs, but also because it symbolized the resilience of Libyan football during a challenging period. With safety remaining a top priority, organizers opted to host the final, along with the upcoming Libyan Super Cup, in Egypt. The neutral venue provided modern facilities, advanced security arrangements, and the use of Video Assistant Referee technology to ensure fair officiating.
Despite the empty stands, the final carried immense weight for both sides. Al Ahli Tripoli entered the match determined to assert their dominance, while Al Ahli Benghazi were eager to claim a prestigious trophy and disrupt their rivals’ momentum. The technical battle was equally compelling, with both teams guided by experienced Egyptian coaches. Hossam Al-Badri led Al Ahli Tripoli, while Tarek Mustafa was in charge of Al Ahli Benghazi, adding an extra tactical dimension to the contest.
The opening half was tightly contested, marked by disciplined defending and cautious build-up play. Both teams focused on maintaining their shape, limiting space, and avoiding costly mistakes in a final where patience often proves decisive. Al Ahli Tripoli showed greater composure in possession and created several promising opportunities, but their finishing lacked the final touch. Benghazi, meanwhile, struggled to create clear chances, relying mainly on counterattacks that were effectively neutralized.
As the second half unfolded, Al Ahli Tripoli raised the tempo and began to impose themselves more convincingly. Their midfield pressed higher, their passing became sharper, and their attacking movements more coordinated. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 67th minute when Azzou Al-Merimi found the back of the net with a composed finish, rewarding his side’s growing dominance and shifting the balance of the match.
The opening goal forced Al Ahli Benghazi to abandon their cautious approach. In search of an equalizer, they pushed more players forward, leaving gaps at the back. Al Ahli Tripoli capitalized on this change in momentum, controlling possession and waiting patiently for further openings. As the clock ticked toward full time, substitute Omran Salem doubled the lead in the 88th minute, punishing defensive lapses and effectively sealing the outcome.
Deep into stoppage time, the contest was put beyond doubt. Mabululu struck the third goal, a decisive moment that extinguished any remaining hopes of a comeback. The final scoreline of 3–0 reflected Al Ahli Tripoli’s superiority in the second half, highlighting their tactical discipline, clinical finishing, and ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.
Rwandan defender Manzi Thierry played a central role in the triumph, completing the full 90 minutes with a commanding and composed performance. His defensive awareness, positional discipline, and experience were instrumental in keeping Al Ahli Benghazi at bay. Time and again, he read the game well, intercepted dangerous passes, and contributed to a solid defensive structure that never truly looked under threat.
Rwanda national team captain Bizimana Djihad, although an unused substitute in the final, remained an important figure within the squad. His leadership, experience, and influence throughout the tournament have been widely acknowledged, and his presence continues to add depth and balance to Al Ahli Tripoli’s midfield options. For Rwandan football fans, seeing two of their internationals associated with such a high-profile success is a source of national pride.
This victory marks the eighth Libya Cup title in Al Ahli Tripoli’s illustrious history, further cementing their status as one of the most successful clubs in the country. Winning the competition under unusual circumstances, away from home and without fan support, underscores the club’s mental strength and professionalism. It also sends a strong message ahead of the 2025 Libyan Super Cup, where expectations will once again be high.
Beyond the trophy itself, the final served as a reminder of football’s unifying power, even in difficult times. Hosting the match in Egypt ensured safety while preserving the integrity of the competition, allowing players to perform at their best and fans across the continent to follow the action through broadcasts and digital platforms.
Al Ahli Tripoli’s success also highlights the growing influence of African players moving across leagues and borders. The contributions of Manzi Thierry and even Bizimana Djihad reinforce the value of Rwandan footballers on the international stage, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level and contribute meaningfully to major club achievements.
As celebrations continue within the Al Ahli Tripoli camp, attention now turns to the Super Cup and future domestic and continental ambitions. With confidence high and momentum firmly on their side, the club will be eager to build on this achievement and extend their dominance in North African football.
Al Ahli Tripoli’s 3–0 victory over Al Ahli Benghazi in Egypt will be remembered not only as a Cup triumph, but as a statement of resilience, quality, and ambition one that resonates far beyond Libyan borders.
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