Al Nassr Advances to AFC Champions League Quarterfinals Despite Ronaldo's Absence

Riyadh. Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, even while off the field, has helped Saudi club Al Nassr advance to the quarterfinals of the AFC Champions League Two. Al Nassr secured its spot in the final eight by defeating Turkmenistan's Arkadag FC 1-0 in a match held Wednesday night, resulting in a 2-0 aggregate victory.

The 41-year-old Ronaldo, who missed the last three matches due to dissatisfaction with management and only returned to the field last Saturday, was seen supporting the team from the stands this time. Local media reported that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has yet to win any major title since joining the Riyadh-based club in December 2022, has been rested for upcoming crucial matches in the Saudi Pro League and the Champions League.

Al Nassr will now compete against the UAE's Al Wasl in the first leg of the quarterfinals on March 3. Al Nassr is considered a strong contender for the title in this second-tier Asian competition.

Meanwhile, in Asia's top-tier competition, the 'AFC Champions League Elite,' three teams from Japan and two from South Korea have successfully reached the Round of 16 from the Eastern region. Malaysia's Johor Darul Ta'zim and Thailand's Buriram United have also secured their passage to the next round, while Australia's Melbourne City became the second Australian team to reach the Round of 16 since 2016.

In the Western region, the dominance of wealthy Saudi Arabian clubs Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad continues. All three teams advanced to the next stage by finishing in the top four. Iran's Tractor, Qatar's Al Duhail and Al Sadd, along with Al Wahda, have also confirmed their places in the knockout stage. The first leg matches of the AFC Champions League Elite Round of 16 will be played on March 2 and 3.