Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Al-Nassr to AFC Champions League Quarterfinals

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a 27th-minute penalty as Al-Nassr defeated Esteghlal FC 3-0 in the AFC Champions League Elite Round of 16. Jhon Duran netted twice (9’, 84’) to seal the win. The first leg ended 0-0, but Al-Nassr dominated at Al-Awwal Park. Now eyeing their first Asian title, they face Al Kholood on March 15.

In the AFC Champions League Elite, Al-Nassr secured a spot in the quarterfinals with a dominant 3-0 victory over Esteghlal FC on March 10, 2025. The first leg had ended in a goalless draw, making the second leg crucial. Playing at Al-Awwal Park in Saudi Arabia, Al-Nassr took an early lead in the ninth minute through Jhon Duran.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40 years old, continued his remarkable form, converting a penalty in the 27th minute to double Al-Nassr’s lead. Duran sealed the victory in the 84th minute with his second goal of the match. With this win, Al-Nassr remains in contention for their first Asian championship.

In the Saudi Pro League, the team faces challenges, currently sitting in fourth place behind Al Hilal and Al Ittihad. However, their AFC Champions League campaign keeps their hopes for silverware alive. Ronaldo, aiming for 1,000 career goals, remains a key figure in Al-Nassr’s success.

Their next fixture is scheduled for March 15 against Al Kholood, where they will look to maintain momentum. With Ronaldo leading the charge, Al-Nassr continues to push for trophies on multiple fronts.