Gamba Osaka shock Al-Nassr to prolong Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophy drought
Cristiano Ronaldo’s wait for a first major trophy with Al-Nassr continues after the Saudi club suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in Saturday’s AFC Champions League Two final.
The heavy favourites were stunned in front of 26,000 expectant fans at their King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh.
Deniz Hummet scored the decisive goal against the run of play in the 30th minute following a clinical through ball from Issam Jebali.
The visitors then defended resolutely throughout the second half to become the first Japanese team to win Asian football’s second-tier competition.
Domestic title offers immediate redemption
This continental heartbreak follows closely on the heels of a frustrating domestic setback for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Just four days earlier, a late own goal from goalkeeper Bento allowed title rivals Al-Hilal to snatch a crucial 1-1 draw.
The Portuguese superstar has yet to lift major silverware since making his highly publicised move to the Middle East in January 2023.
However, the Riyadh-based outfit remain top of the Saudi Pro League and sit two points clear heading into the final day of the season.
Focus shifts to crucial season finale
The league leaders can still secure their 11th domestic crown, and first since 2019, by defeating Damac on Thursday.
Meanwhile, second-placed Al-Hilal must win their concurrent fixture away to Al-Fayha to stand any chance of retaining the championship.
Manager Jorge Jesus urged his disappointed squad to quickly shift their focus towards the impending title decider.
“We didn’t get what we wanted here but there is one more final for us, the Saudi Pro League title, which is very important to us.”
“We have five days to recover and prepare and there is no time for grieving. We have to get going again.”
