Just weeks ago, Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr seemed to be contrary to the next edition of AFC Champions League because of their position in 2024–25 Saudi Pro League. But in a dramatic turn, An important decision by Saudia’s Sports Arbitration Center has handed over Ronaldo a great lifeline.
On Friday, May 16, Al Nassr was held at 1-1 draw by Al Taawoun on Match Day 32 – a result that apparently dashed their hope of finishing second in the league, which guarantees qualification for AFC Champions League. With only one game left, the odds looked narrow. However, an administrative decision at the last minute has breathed new life in their campaign.
The Saudi sports arbitration center ruled in favor of Al Nassr in a dispute derived from their February 28 loss to Al Orobah. The club had submitted a formal complaint that claimed that Orobah goalkeeper Rafi Al Ruwaili was not eligible to play, citing that he was not completely released from his employment outside football – a claim under the league’s regulations.
As a result of the decision, Al Nassr was awarded retroactively a 3-0 victory and twisted the previous 2-1 defeat. Al Orobah was also docked points, a battle that effectively moves them to the second division.
The Saudi Football Association confirmed the final in the decision with a brief statement: “The divorce for the Sport Center issues its decision on Al Nassr’s appeal. Accepting Al Nassr’s appeal is a final and binding decision for all parties and is not subject to appeal“
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What has to happen for Al Nassr to qualify for AFC Champions League?
After the point adjustment, Al Nass now sits third in the league table with 70 points from 33 matches -As two points behind second place Al Hilalwhich has the last AFC Champions League qualifier. While the road is narrow, Ronaldo and Al Nassr are not out of the race yet.
To secure qualification, Al Nassr must beat Al Fateh on Match Day 34 and hope that Al Hilal either pulls or loses to fourth place al Qadsiah. If both teams finish level of score at 73, the head-to-head record will be tiebreaker-not goal difference.
In their two league meetings this season, Al Hilal and Al Nassr drew 1-1 in the first stage, while Ronaldo made a brace in a 3-1 victory in the return fortress. The head-to-head advantage may prove to be crucial in the final positions, as Ronaldo was able to live his last minutes with the Al Nassr shirt.
