Al Nassr Faces Tough Draw Without Ronaldo in Asian Champions League Opener

Al Nassr began their campaign in the revamped Asian Champions League with a challenging 1-1 draw against Iraq’s Al Shorta on Monday, notably struggling in the absence of their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar, diagnosed with a viral infection, did not travel with the squad, leaving a significant gap in the team.

The match in Baghdad started promisingly for Al Nassr, as full-back Sultan Al Ghannam scored the opening goal after receiving a precise pass from Otavio in the 14th minute. However, the lead was short-lived. Al Shorta equalized just 10 minutes later when a defensive mix-up between Al Nassr’s new signings Salem Al Najdi and Mohamed Simakan allowed Mohammed Dawood to score with a well-placed shot.

In other matches, Saudi side Al Ahli secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Iran’s Persepolis in Jeddah. Franck Kessie, an Ivory Coast international, scored the only goal early in the game. Al Ahli’s new signing, Ivan Toney, had a mixed debut, missing a penalty but earning his side a spot-kick.

Defending champions Al Ain also drew 1-1 at home against Qatar’s Al Sadd. Akram Afif put Al Ain ahead, but Matias Palacios leveled the score late in the match. Additionally, Iran’s Esteghlal defeated Al Gharafa of Qatar 3-0 in another opening fixture.