Ronaldo’s Last Dance? Saudi Giants Eye Asian Champions League Crown on Home Turf
Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr are on a mission — to claim the Asian Champions League crown, and they’re doing it with home advantage. Saudi Arabia is hosting the final stages of the rebranded AFC Champions League Elite from April 25 to May 3 in Jeddah, setting the stage for a football showdown packed with star power and high expectations.
The quarter-finals, semi-finals, and grand finale will all play out at the 62,000-seater King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, and the spotlight is firmly on the three Saudi clubs in the mix — Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli. Thanks to their deep pockets and major European signings, they’re considered frontrunners for the title.
At 40, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy time, leading Al Nassr’s charge with seven goals so far in the tournament. Now in the twilight of his legendary career, he’s eyeing his first-ever Asian Champions League title — and this might just be his moment.
Al Nassr coach Stefano Pioli remains optimistic:
“I always have great confidence in the players because of our hard work in training. Sometimes the results don’t reflect our effort, but we’re on the right track.”
But first, they’ll have to knock out last year’s runners-up, Yokohama F. Marinos. The Japanese side is in disarray after sacking coach Steve Holland, with interim boss Patrick Kisnorbo now trying to steady the ship.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal, already four-time champions, face Korean underdogs Gwangju. Though Neymar has returned to Brazil, Hilal still boasts talents like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Joao Cancelo, and Ruben Neves.
Technical director Jang Ki-bong of Gwangju says they’re not intimidated:
“We know they’re strong, but we’re here to compete — not just participate.”
Al Ahli, who could face Hilal in an all-Saudi semi-final, bring serious firepower too — with Ivan Toney, Roberto Firmino, and Riyad Mahrez leading the charge. They’ll battle Thailand’s Buriram United for a place in the next round.
Mahrez is confident the home turf gives them an edge:
“Playing in Jeddah helps us. We’re going to give it everything to bring that trophy home.”
