Benzema missed a penalty that would have levelled the score at 1-1 just before half-time and the Saudi Pro League champion paid a heavy price for the wastefulness of its France and former Real Madrid striker.

Ali Maaloul had fired Al Ahly ahead from the spot – both penalties were awarded for handballs – but it was the period after half-time that set the Egyptian side apart.

First to strike at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium was Hussein El Shahat with a curling shot into right of the goal that gave keeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf no chance.

Then came a slick finish by Emam Ashour after he had presented with a cutback by Kahraba.

Al Ahly suffered a late setback when Anthony Modeste was sent off for use of the elbow, meaning he will not be available for the semi-final against Fluminense, before Benzema grabbed a late consolation.