Ronaldo Poised to Secure AFC Champions League Title With Al Nassr at Home
Cristiano Ronaldo played a key role as Al Nassr advanced to the AFC Champions League Two semifinals. The Saudi club defeated Al Wasl 4-0 in Dubai to reach the last four.
Quarterfinal details
The match took place at Zabeel Stadium on Sunday. Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 12th minute.
- Iñigo Martínez added a second goal in the 24th minute.
- Abdulelah Al-Amri scored in the 26th minute to extend the lead.
- Sadio Mané completed the rout with a goal in the 80th minute.
Semifinal assignment and schedule
Al Nassr will play Al Ahli of Doha in the semifinal. The single-leg tie is set for Wednesday, April 22, at Zabeel Stadium.
The AFC rescheduled the knockout stage into single matches. The winner moves on to face Gamba Osaka in the final.
Host rights for the final
Asharq Al-Awsat reported the AFC has designated Al Awwal Park in Riyadh as the final venue. That designation applies only if Al Nassr beat Al Ahli.
If Al Ahli win, the final will return to Doha as originally planned. The final is scheduled for May 16.
Context and stakes
This AFC Champions League Two campaign offers Al Nassr a chance to end a long trophy drought. The competition is seen as secondary in prestige but still valuable.
Gamba Osaka have already secured their place in the final. They will travel to the Middle East regardless of which western club advances.
Team form and Ronaldo
Ronaldo’s goal against Al Wasl took his career total to 969. It was just his second appearance in this tournament this season.
Coach Jorge Jesus has managed Ronaldo’s minutes to prioritise the continental prize. The strategy aims to maximise Al Nassr’s title chances.
Winning streak and league fixture
Al Nassr have now won 18 consecutive matches across all competitions. That run includes 15 Saudi Pro League wins and three in the AFC Champions League Two.
The club’s next league meeting with Al Ahli is scheduled for April 29. That date allows the team to concentrate on the continental semifinal beforehand.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow the build-up to the semifinal. Fans will watch whether Ronaldo can help secure the title at home with Al Nassr.
