In a dazzling display in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo led Al-Nassr to a decisive 4-0 victory over the United Arab Emirates' Al-Wasl in the AFC Champions League Elite stage. With this win, Al-Nassr not only triumphed but also secured their place in the round of 16 ahead of the final group stage matches.
The Portuguese superstar, nearing his 40th birthday, continues to defy age as he added two more goals to his impressive tally this season, reaching 23 for the Riyadh club. His performance underscored why he remains one of football's most formidable forwards.
Al-Nassr's commanding victory began with midfielder Ali Al-Hassan setting the tone by scoring in the 25th minute. Ronaldo then demonstrated his enduring quality by converting a penalty just before the halftime whistle and later adding another goal with a precise header in the game's closing stages. Mohammed Al-Fatil further solidified the team's dominance, netting the fourth goal.
This match also saw Jhon Duran make his debut for Al-Nassr. Freshly transferred from Aston Villa in the Premier League, Duran's presence on the field marked the beginning of what fans hope will be an impactful tenure with the Saudi club.
With this victory, Al-Nassr stands strong in third place in their group, trailing only fellow Saudi league competitors Al-Ahli, who claimed the top position after a 3-1 victory over Qatar's Al-Sadd. Al-Ahli's standout performances came despite a swift opening goal by Akram Afif from Al-Sadd. However, a remarkable comeback ensued, featuring goals by former Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino and Brazilian defender Ibanez, with Riyad Mahrez delivering the final blow.
Around the league, Al-Rayyan of Qatar managed to edge out defending champions Al-Ain 2-1, and a tightly contested match between Iraq's Al-Shorta and Iran's Persepolis ended in a 1-1 draw. These results have set the stage for an exciting progression as the top teams from West and East Asia's pools prepare for the next competitive round of the tournament.
This edition of the AFC Champions League continues to showcase thrilling football moments and highlight the region's growing impact on the global stage. Fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming challenges and opportunities for clubs like Al-Nassr and their international stars, who are showcasing their talents while representing their clubs with passion and skill.