Cristiano Ronaldo’s eyes now on Asia Cup Trophy – Will AI-Nasr be able to do wonders|
Ronaldo has taken some rest, and his entire focus is on winning his first major trophy in Saudi Arabia. Last season he broke the Saudi Pro League goal scoring record, with 35 goals, and this time too he is on top. But after joining AI-Nasr in 2022, he has not got any silverware till now.
On Saturday, Ronaldo will lead AI-Nassr against Japan’s team Yokohama F. Marinos in the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League Elite. AI-Nasr has never won this continental championship, but this time the chances are strong, especially since Ronaldo has been rested in the league match against Damac.
AI-Nasr is full of star power
Apart from Ronaldo, there are many stars in the team: Jon Duran, Sadio Mane and Aymeric Laporte. Coach Stefano Pioli said: “Our entire focus is on Asia. The players have performed very well.
Yokohama’s Problems
Yokohama reached the ACL finals last season, but this time it is in last position in Japan’s domestic league with only 2 points in 7 matches. Their coach Steve Holland has been fired, and now Patrick Kisnorbo is managing the team as interim manager.
Domination of Saudi Clubs
AI – Hilal has already won 4 ACL titles, and is now ready for the fifth. On Friday, this team will play against Gwangju FC. Their coach Jorge Jesus says: “Asian Champions League is my personal dream. This is not a small thing for the fans and the club as well. We will play every match to win.”
AI – Ahli: Jeddah based club, and will face Thai Club Buriram United in the quarterfinal with the dream of winning the final on home ground.
The remaining one match is against Saudi.
There is only one quarterfinal in which a Saudi team will not play – AI – Sadd vs Kawasaki Frontale, on Sunday. Kawasaki will try to win its first title.
