Cristiano Ronaldo’s Trophy Drought Continues After Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Exit
Al-Nassr faced a surprising exit from the AFC Champions League after a 3-2 defeat to Kawasaki Frontale in the semi-finals, and it continues to be a tough period for Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.
The match kicked off with a bang, as Kawasaki took the lead in just the 10th minute. Tatsuya Ito delivered an incredible volley, demonstrating his remarkable skill after getting a cross from Marcinho. Even with Al-Nassr’s solid defense putting up a fight, the ball landed just right for Ito, who expertly struck it into the net from the edge of the box.
Al-Nassr quickly equalized through Sadio Mane, who found the net after a precise pass from Nawaf Boushal just before the half-hour mark. Ronaldo then had a chance to put his team ahead, but his header from a close distance hit the crossbar, a moment that would haunt him later.
As the first half was winding down, Kawasaki managed to take the lead once more thanks to a goal by Yuto Ozeki. Ito played a key role in the play, making a stunning run down the field. Although his initial shot was blocked, Ozeki was quick to react, seizing the rebound and slotting it into the net.
Kawasaki nearly put the game to bed early in the second half, but a remarkable save from Al-Nassr’s Bento denied Erison, who was in a prime position to score.
The tactical switches made by Kawasaki’s coach paid off when substitute Akihiro Ienaga found the net in the 76th minute, assisted by Erison. Although Ayman Yahya managed to score late for Al-Nassr, it wasn’t enough to change the outcome. This match marked another frustrating chapter for Ronaldo, who has yet to secure a significant title with Al-Nassr since joining in January 2023.
It was a tough night for Ronaldo. He missed several key scoring opportunities in the final minutes of the match, including two free kicks and another shot that hit the post. This loss means he’s looking at another season in Saudi Arabia without winning a trophy.
Looking ahead, Al-Nassr will turn its focus to the Saudi Pro League, where it will host league leaders Al-Ittihad on May 7. Meanwhile, Kawasaki will prepare to face Al-Ahli in the Champions League final this Saturday.
