Dubai [UAE], April 23 (ANI): Kingsley Coman produced a scintillating hat-trick as Al-Nassr stormed into the AFC Champions League Two closing with a commanding 5-1 victory over Al-Ahli SC on Wednesday.
Despite a robust begin from the guests, Al-Nassr’s attacking high quality proved overwhelming as they recovered from an early setback to seal a complete win in entrance of their residence followers in Riyadh.
Al-Ahli had the right likelihood to take the lead inside seven minutes, however Julian Draxler noticed his penalty saved by goalkeeper Bento Krepski. The Qatari facet didn’t have to attend lengthy to open the scoring, nonetheless, as Sekou Yansane curled a low effort into the far nook to make it 1-0.
Al-Nassr responded nearly instantly. Angelo Gabriel burst down the flank to arrange Coman for a close-range equaliser, earlier than getting on the scoresheet himself after combining neatly with Sadio Mane to place the hosts forward.
Coman struck once more simply earlier than half-time, capitalising on a defensive lapse to provide Al-Nassr a 3-1 lead on the break and seize full management of the competition.
The French winger accomplished his hat-trick within the sixty fourth minute, ending calmly after one other incisive move from Angelo, capping a dominant particular person efficiency.
Substitute Abdullah Al-Hamdan added a fifth purpose late on to spherical off an emphatic victory for the Saudi Pro League leaders.
Cristiano Ronaldo featured for 78 minutes and performed an influential function in Al-Nassr’s attacking build-up, although he was unable to seek out the online. The Portuguese ahead later expressed his delight on social media, praising the group’s efficiency as they moved one step nearer to silverware.
Al-Ahli have been left to rue their missed alternatives, significantly the early penalty, as Al-Nassr’s scientific ending and fluid attacking play proved decisive.
With the win, Al-Nassr advance to the ultimate, the place they may face Gamba Osaka in Riyadh on May 17. Sitting atop the Saudi Pro League and brimming with confidence, the Riyadh-based membership will now goal to crown a formidable season with their first main trophy since Ronaldo’s arrival in 2022. (ANI)