Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr is in pursuit of glory in the Asian Champions League Elite.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr is in pursuit of glory in the Asian Champions League Elite.
Big-spending Saudi clubs, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr, are dominating the Asian Champions League Elite, with all but one semifinal spot claimed by Saudi Pro League sides after a commanding weekend that saw a combined 14-1 scoreline across three quarterfinal wins.
Al-Hilal, a four-time champion, will face two-time finalist Al-Ahli in an all-Saudi semifinal on Tuesday, ensuring at least one team from the kingdom reaches the final on May 3. Meanwhile, Al-Nassr prepares to take on Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale—the last non-Saudi contender—after cruising past Yokohama F. Marinos 4-1, with goals from Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Jhon Duran.
With the entire knockout stage hosted in Jeddah, Saudi teams enjoy home support and showcase the results of a $1 billion summer spending spree in 2023, attracting Premier League talent like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Ivan Toney.
The demanding travel and packed domestic calendars have taken a toll on visiting teams, with Kawasaki narrowly beating Al Sadd after extra time, while Buriram United and Gwangju FC suffered heavy defeats. Coaches from the visiting sides acknowledged the challenge, as Saudi clubs continue to raise the standard of competition on the continent.
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