“This is a trophy on another continent in Asia,” said Mahrez. “I’ve played other finals before but when you play this type of competition especially in our home like this, we have the opportunity to bring the first Champion League Elite to Al Ahli. 

“I've been lucky enough to play in teams that have won a lot of trophies with big players. But when you play for any trophy, any cup, it’s exciting. I’m really looking forward and excited to winning a trophy for this club and this team and I’ll give everything tomorrow.”

No player has contributed more to Al Ahli’s continental campaign than Mahrez - who in playing all 12 matches so far, has nine goals and eight assists.

The 34-year-old has also racked up impressive figures in terms of chances created not only within his own team but across the entire competition, his 43 is the competition’s highest.

While expectations are high among their fans that Al Ahli will lift the trophy on Saturday, Mahrez will be taking nothing for granted.

“The opponent is not someone we play every week. But we’ve seen the way they play and we know the approach we must have. We must enjoy it because finals don't come every season, to some it might be the only final of their career, so we must give everything.

“Of course we feel everything, not only the final but also the semi-final. We can take this pressure and we take the positives, to motivate us and give everything for these fans and we want to achieve something as a team as well, that’s what we’re going to fight for every minute of the match for it.”

Playing the final at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium is an added advantage for Al Ahli, with their fans acting as the 12th players - as seen in the semi-final win against fellow Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal SFC.

“The fans are incredible. They are always behind us. The last game was incredible even if it was half-half. 

“We need them as much as possible and we want them to push us as much as possible and with them, I’m sure we can give every last effort until the last minute.”