In a thrilling Arab Club Champions Cup group stage fixture on Thursday (August 3), Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Egyptian outfit Zamalek, thanks to a powerful late-minute header goal from Christiano Ronaldo.
Zamalek initially took the lead when Zizo scored from the spot, but Al Nassr refused to back down. In a crucial turn of events, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who came to the rescue for Al Nassr, scoring an 87th-minute equalizer that secured their spot in the knockout stages of the tournament.
Ronaldo displayed impeccable timing as he leaped to head in an excellent cross by Ghislain Konan from the left wing.
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This goal proved to be the game-changer, as it helped Al-Nassr draw the match against the Egyptian club and secure qualification for the quarter-finals of the Arab Club Champions Cup.
Without Ronaldo’s vital contribution, Al-Nassr might have been knocked out in the group stages, making the goal all the more significant.
The Saudi Pro League club managed to qualify by a narrow one-point margin.
As a result of their qualification, Al-Nassr will now prepare for their quarterfinal duel against Moroccan side Raja CA, which is scheduled to take place at the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium on August 6. The upcoming clash promises to be an exciting encounter as Al-Nassr looks to continue their journey in the prestigious tournament.
Sadio Mane Debuts for Al-Nassr Following Bayern Munich Move
Another spectacular in the Al-Nassr, Zamalek match – Senegal international Sadio Mane has finally made his much-anticipated debut for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr after completing his move from Bayern Munich.
Mane secured a lucrative four-year deal with the Knights of Nahd after an unsuccessful one-season stint with Bayern.
Source: Twitter
Amidst discussions surrounding his impressive trophy collection and staggering salary, Mane took the field for the first time in Al-Nassr’s Arab Club Champions Cup clash against Zamalek.