Al Nassr has something to cheer about this season after a series of disappointments. The club has sealed its spot in next season’s AFC Champions League after their win over Al Fayha in the Saudi Pro League tie. The club, despite the absence of its talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, won the contest comfortably, exciting the Portuguese captain for next season’s challenge. Even though there were very few doubts about Al Nassr’s qualifications, the occasion comes as a relief after their early exit this year.
Every year, four teams from the Saudi League qualify for the continental tournament, and Al Nassr’s top four spot has been confirmed. Taking to his Instagram story, Ronaldo posted, “Well done, Team! 💛💙,” congratulating the club. In addition, the club has reportedly qualified for the Saudi Super Cup next season.
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It is quite astonishing to see how enthusiastic Cristiano Ronaldo can get. After conquering the UEFA Champions League as its all-time top scorer, the alchemist has set his eyes on the Asian continental trophy. This year, the team was almost on the verge of reaching the semifinals but succumbed to some easy penalty misses by their players against Al Ain in the second-leg shootout.
In addition, the Knights of Najd also lost out on the Saudi Super Cup after losing to Al Hilal in the semifinal amid a controversial red card issued to CR7. Luckily, despite the conduct against the referee, the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner will reportedly serve just a game ban.
Is a win against Al Fayha a hope for Al Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo for the rest of the season?
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Meanwhile, Al Nassr did a commendable job against a midtable Al Fayha. Trailing the ninth-placed team by a goal until the 72nd minute, the club witnessed Sadio Mane rise to the occasion with a brace, helping them win 3-1. The team in yellow didn’t have the services of Cristiano Ronaldo or Anderson Talisca, who was ruled out of the season due to a thigh injury. With Al Hilal’s unbeaten streak ending recently, Al Nassr will hope for a potential momentum shift, giving them a slight chance in the league.
Nevertheless, the Saudi League looks like a tough task. Trailing Al Hilal by 12 points, each game becomes a must-win for Cristiano Ronaldo and co. However, the club still has the King’s Cup within their grasp, giving them a chance to salvage at least one title this season. And with Ronaldo returning from suspension, it can be a sign of warning for the opponents. Will the highest goalscorer in the world help Al Nassr win a trophy this season? Let us know in the comments.