In a thrilling display of football, Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice to lead Al Nassr to a commanding 4-0 victory over Al Wasl in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday. The match, held in Riyadh, showcased Al Nassr's dominance as they secured their spot in the next round of the competition.
The home side took the lead in the 25th minute when Ali Al-Hassan unleashed a powerful long-range shot that found the back of the net, setting the tone for the rest of the game. Ronaldo, who is set to celebrate his 40th birthday on Wednesday, doubled the advantage just before halftime. He confidently converted a penalty after a handball by Al Wasl's Salem Al Azizi.
As the match progressed, Ronaldo continued to impress. In the 78th minute, he headed in a precise cross from Sadio Mane, securing his brace and further extending Al Nassr's lead. The Portuguese superstar's performance was a testament to his enduring skill and fitness on the pitch.
Mohammed Al-Fatil added the fourth goal in the closing moments of the game, sealing a comprehensive win for Al Nassr. With this victory, Al Nassr sits comfortably in third place with 16 points, having already qualified for the next round of the tournament.
Despite the loss, Al Wasl, who are fifth with 11 points, have also secured their place in the last 16. The visitors from the United Arab Emirates showed determination but were unable to break through Al Nassr's solid defense.
The match also marked the debut of Jhon Duran in Saudi Arabia, adding to the excitement of the evening. Fans are eager to see how the Colombian forward will contribute to Al Nassr's campaign moving forward.
Al Nassr's emphatic victory highlights their ambition in the AFC Champions League Elite, as they continue to build momentum in the competition. Supporters across Asia and around the world will be watching closely as the tournament progresses.
Reference(s):
Ronaldo doubles, Al Nassr rout Al Wasl in AFC Champions League Elite
cgtn.com
