Asian Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al Nassr goes down with first loss

Cristiano Ronaldo watched from the stands as Al Nassr faced their first defeat in this year’s Asian Champions League Elite, falling 2-1 to Qatar’s Al Sadd in a dramatic injury-time finish on Monday. With Al Nassr already qualified for the knockout stages and three rounds of the group phase still remaining, the Portuguese legend, aged 39, was reportedly rested for the clash held in Riyadh. The decision to sideline Ronaldo reflected the team's confidence in their progression, given their prior success in the tournament. Ronaldo’s recent form has been nothing short of spectacular. In their previous Champions League encounter, the superstar scored twice against Qatari side Al Gharafa, delivering a stellar performance that secured Al Nassr's qualification. He carried that momentum into the Saudi Pro League, where he netted another impressive double just days ago, demonstrating his enduring influence and sharpness on the field.

Without Ronaldo’s presence, Al Nassr struggled to find the same rhythm against a determined Al Sadd side. The Qatari team capitalized on their opportunities, ultimately snatching the win in the dying moments of the game. While the defeat marked a blemish on Al Nassr's otherwise flawless campaign, the team remains a strong contender as they prepare for the next stages of the tournament, with Ronaldo expected to play a key role in their pursuit of the coveted title.

Al Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Stefano Pioli's matchday squad during their clash against Al Sadd. Ronaldo, who has scored an impressive 15 goals in 18 appearances this season, was spotted at Al Awwal Park, enjoying the game alongside his mother, Dolores Aveiro, and partner, Georgina Rodriguez. Al Sadd broke the deadlock early in the second half through Akram Afif, the reigning AFC Player of the Year.

Afif displayed his pace and precision, sprinting from the halfway line to latch onto a long ball, outpacing defender Mohammed Al Fatil, and coolly slotting the ball past Brazilian goalkeeper Bento. Al Nassr managed to equalize in the 80th minute. Brazilian youngster Wesley delivered a sharp low cross into the box, forcing Al Sadd defender Romain Saiss into an unfortunate own goal, leveling the score and adding drama to the encounter.

Al Nassr's defeat sees them remain third in the Western Region group stage, while Al Sadd climb to fourth, securing a spot in the last 16 alongside their Saudi rivals. The top eight teams from the group phase progress to the knockout rounds of the tournament. Meanwhile, fellow Saudi side Al Ahli retained their position at the top of the group despite a 2-2 draw with Iran's Esteghlal in Jeddah. The result ended Al Ahli's perfect record in this year's competition but showcased the clinical performance of England striker Ivan Toney.

Toney scored twice for the hosts, both from the penalty spot. His first goal came deep into first-half injury time, leveling the score after Esteghlal took an early lead. The second penalty, converted in the 86th minute, ensured a share of the spoils for Al Ahli. Esteghlal, reduced to 10 men after Mohammed Hossein Eslami's dismissal five minutes earlier, managed to hold on for the draw.