Heartbreak in Riyadh: Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr Ousted from Asian Champions League Quarters

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr suffered a heartbreaking exit from the Asian Champions League quarter-finals after losing 3-1 on penalties to Al-Ain. Despite winning the second leg 4-3, Al-Nassr’s dreams were shattered in the shootout, with their foreign imports failing to convert from the spot.

The match began with Al-Nassr aiming to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit. Al-Ain’s Rahimi put the visitors ahead with goals in the 28th and 45th minutes, but Al-Nassr fought back with Ghareeb’s strike just before halftime. Otavio’s low drive was deflected into his own goal by Al-Ain’s goalkeeper early in the second half, leveling the aggregate scores. Telles then scored from a free kick to further boost Al-Nassr’s hopes.

However, Al-Nassr’s chances took a hit when Yahya was sent off for a dangerous tackle in extra time. With the game seemingly heading towards a draw, Ronaldo won a penalty in the dying moments, which he duly converted to force a shootout.

In the nerve-wracking penalty shootout, Al-Ain emerged victorious as Al-Nassr’s Brozovic, Telles, and Otavio all failed to find the net. Al-Ain’s goalkeeper, Eisa, played a crucial role by saving Brozovic’s opening penalty, setting the stage for Al-Ain’s progression to the semi-finals.

Despite Ronaldo’s successful penalty, it wasn’t enough to save Al-Nassr, marking a disappointing end to their Asian Champions League campaign. Al-Ain’s victory sees them through to the semi-finals for the first time since 2016.

Meanwhile, in the eastern half of the draw, South Korean sides Jeonbuk Motors and Ulsan Hyundai are set to face off after a 1-1 draw in their first leg. Harry Kewell’s Yokohama F Marinos will also be in action, defending a 2-1 lead against Chinese Super League side Shandong Taishan.

The quarter-final clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Ain showcased the drama and unpredictability of knockout football, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final penalty was taken. Despite the disappointment, Al-Nassr can take pride in their spirited performance and look ahead to future challenges in their quest for continental glory.