Hernan Crespo’s Men Secure First Leg Advantage Against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr in 1-0 AFC Champions League Win
Al Nassr’s chances of silverware this season are in jeopardy after the Saudi Pro League side lost against UAE’s Al Ain in the first leg of the AFC Champions League quarter-final. Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates will need to come back from a goal down to progress to the semi-finals.
The first half was uneventful, save for an Al Ain goal ruled out by VAR, up to the 44th minute when Soufiane Rahimi scored the match’s only goal to hand the home side a first-leg advantage.
Cristiano was unlucky on the day after returning from suspension due to a gesture to Al Shabab fans who were taunting him. He had two exceptional efforts saved, one in each half.
Al Nassr will also miss the services of former Manchester City center-back Aymeric Laporte, who received his marching orders in the 94th minute for violent conduct. With Al Nassr missing their key man in defense, they will be in for a tough time overcoming an Al Ain side that will be keen to take advantage of Al Nassr’s desire for a goal that may leave them open in defense.
