Ronaldo’s Heroics Propel Al Nassr to Arab Champions Cup Quarterfinals
In a dramatic turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo’s late goal secured a 1-1 draw for Al Nassr against Zamalek, allowing them to progress to the quarterfinals of the Arab Club Champions Cup 2023.
Ronaldo’s goal came in the 87th minute, just when Al Nassr seemed on the brink of an early exit in the group stage. Defender Ghislain Konan made a crucial breakthrough on the left flank and delivered a precise cross for Ronaldo, who headed the ball into the net from close range. Although the 1-1 scoreline was sufficient for Al Nassr to advance, the Portuguese superstar’s determination was evident as he swiftly retrieved the ball, eager to add another goal. Despite not achieving that feat, Ronaldo and his teammates secured their spot in the quarterfinals, finishing as runners-up in Group C.
The Arab Club Champions Cup is an annual tournament that gathers Arab region clubs from the Middle East and North Africa. Al Nassr’s participation this year was by invitation from the Arab Football Association, exempting them from the qualification round. The competition took place from July 27th to August 12th, featuring 16 teams divided into four groups of four. The top two teams from each group progressed to the quarterfinals.
After three matches, Al Nassr secured one victory and two draws, accumulating five points and securing second place in Group C, just behind Al Shabab. Zamalek, the representative from Egypt, finished third with four points and was eliminated. Among the eight quarterfinalists, four are from Saudi Arabia: Al Nassr, Al Shabab, Al Hilal, and Al Ittihad. Ronaldo and his teammates are set to face Morocco’s Raja Club in the quarterfinals on August 6th.
While Ronaldo didn’t find the net in the initial match against Al Shabab, he played a pivotal role in his team’s 4-1 victory over Union Monastirienne from Tunisia in the second match. In the crucial final group-stage encounter against Zamalek, Al Nassr found themselves trailing, but Ronaldo’s goal secured the draw and progression. The match’s conclusion saw the jubilation of fans at the King Fahd Stadium, celebrating Al Nassr’s accomplishment.
With his two goals in the tournament, Ronaldo is now tied for second place in the Golden Boot race. The top spot is currently held by striker Karim Benzema, who netted three goals in three matches for Al Ittihad, all of which proved decisive in their perfect group-stage record. Al Ittihad is set to face Al Hilal in the quarterfinals on August 5th.
Ronaldo’s personal tally also reached a remarkable milestone, as he now boasts a world-record 840 career goals. In the upcoming match, there is anticipation of seeing him play alongside newcomer Sadio Mane, a partnership that promises to bolster Al Nassr’s attacking prowess. Under the guidance of coach Luis Castro, Al Nassr aims to clinch their first title since 2020.
