Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr Crash Out of Asian Champions League After Semifinal Loss to Kawasaki Frontale

Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr Crash Out of Asian Champions League After Semifinal Loss to Kawasaki Frontale

Cristiano Ronaldo’s pursuit of a major trophy in Saudi Arabia will have to wait, as Al-Nassr suffered a 3-2 defeat to Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the semifinals of the AFC Champions League on Wednesday.

The 40-year-old Portuguese star, who joined the Riyadh-based club in December 2022, had multiple chances but failed to find the net in a match where Al-Nassr came up short despite a spirited performance.

Kawasaki struck early, with Tatsuya Ito opening the scoring in the 10th minute with a stunning volley. Al-Nassr responded through Sadio Mané, who leveled the score before the half-hour mark. Ronaldo came close to turning the tide, heading against the woodwork shortly after the equalizer. However, Yuto Ozeki restored Kawasaki’s lead just before halftime.

Al-Nassr pushed forward after the break, but Kawasaki extended their advantage in the 76th minute when Akihiro Ienaga tapped in from close range. Ayman Yahya pulled one back for the Saudi side in the 87th minute, but despite late efforts from Ronaldo and new $100 million signing Jhon Durán, the comeback fell short.

The defeat ends Al-Nassr’s campaign, while Kawasaki Frontale advances to Saturday’s final, where they will face Al-Ahli — another Saudi Pro League team — in a bid to claim their first-ever continental title. Al-Ahli secured their spot in the final with a 3-1 win over domestic rivals Al-Hilal on Tuesday.

Ronaldo had previously scored in Al-Nassr’s quarterfinal win over Yokohama, but the semifinal proved to be a step too far for the Riyadh giants.

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