Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty in vain as Al Nassr fall to back-to-back losses

Al Nassr entered the match without Sadio Mane, who is still competing at the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite this, the higher-rated side controlled much of the first half and created several chances for Cristiano Ronaldo. However, they failed to convert, and the first half ended goalless.

Just six minutes after the restart, Al Qadsiah opened the scoring. A mistake from goalkeeper Al-Aqidi allowed Julian Quiñones to take advantage and score into an empty net. Al Nassr pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but their attacking approach left space for Al Qadsiah to counter.

In the 66th minute, Nahitan Nández doubled the lead for the away team. Al Nassr pulled one goal back in the 80th minute. Joao Felix was fouled in the box and Ronaldo converted from the penalty spot. However, the goal was not enough, as Al Nassr suffered a second straight defeat.

Manager Jorge Jesus said after the match: “There is no long summary of the match. Al Nassr lost and gave Al Qadsiah the opportunity to win. In the second half, we gave gifts to the opposing team. That is the only story of the match. Al Nassr lost 2–1 due to individual mistakes, that is the story of the game. We need to regroup and bounce back in the next match. The upcoming game is against Al Hilal, and nothing is decided yet, Al Hilal are only four points ahead.

"Simakan’s absence had an impact. He will return, which is one of the positive points, and I hope things start to improve in a positive way beginning with the next match. We believe in Wesley’s abilities. It’s not by coincidence that European clubs are interested in him. He played 20 minutes today and was not the reason for our defeat. I found a solution in Wesley after Mane’s absence.”

Following the defeat, Al Hilal moved four points clear of Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, despite Al Nassr starting the season with 10 consecutive wins. There is also a possibility that Al Nassr could be level on points with Al Taawoun if they win their match against Al Shabab. However, Al Nassr would remain in second place due to their superior goal difference.