Agency :
Cristiano Ronaldo showcased his class with a brace for Al-Nassr, while reigning AFC Champions League holders Al Ain saw their title defence end in disappointment on a dramatic matchday in Asia’s premier club competition.
Ronaldo, who celebrates his 40th birthday this week, led Al-Nassr to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Al-Wasl in Riyadh, with the Portuguese star scoring twice after Ali Al-Hassan opened the scoring. Mohammed Al-Fatil added a late goal to complete the rout.
Stefano Pioli also handed Jhon Duran his first appearance after signing the Columbian international from Aston Villa last week. Meanwhile, Al Ain’s campaign came to an end after a 2-1 home defeat to Qatar’s Al-Rayyan.
Despite taking the lead through Alejandro Romero’s stunning strike late in the first half, Al Ain’s defense faltered. Second-half goals from Mahmoud Trezeguet and Roger Guedes sealed their fate, leaving the UAE side rooted to the bottom of their group with only two points from seven matches.
In other action, Iraq’s Al-Shorta kept their slim hopes alive with a 1-1 draw against Esteghlal in Tehran, while Al-Ahli secured a vital 3-1 victory over Qatar’s Al-Sadd to maintain their position at the top of the standings.
Roberto Firmino, Roger Ibanez, and Riyad Mahrez found the back of the net for the Saudi side, who overcame an early setback after reigning Asian Player of the Year Akram Afif opened the scoring in the first minute.
