Key Highlights:
Damac vs Al-Nassr: Ronaldo Rested as Al-Nassr Clinch 2-0 Victory in Saudi Pro League
Damac vs Al-Nassr ended in a convincing 2-0 win for Al-Nassr at the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium on April 22, 2025, as the visitors continued their strong run in the Saudi Pro League. While the match saw key stars missing from the lineup, it showcased Al-Nassr’s squad depth and tactical superiority.
Why Ronaldo Was Absent in Damac vs Al-Nassr Clash
Cristiano Ronaldo did not feature in the matchday squad, raising questions among fans. The club later clarified that the Portuguese forward was rested strategically to preserve his fitness ahead of the crucial AFC Champions League quarterfinal against Yokohama F. Marinos on April 26.
There were no injury or suspension concerns. The decision was part of a planned squad rotation, ensuring Ronaldo remains fresh for the continental knockout stages — a top priority for Al-Nassr this season.
Match Highlights: Al-Nassr Dominate Without Ronaldo
Despite Ronaldo’s absence, Al-Nassr delivered a clinical performance:
- ⚽ Jhon Durán opened the scoring with a composed finish in the first half.
- ⚽ Ângelo Gabriel capitalized on a defensive lapse to double the lead early in the second half.
- 🧤 Al-Nassr’s defense held strong, limiting Damac’s attacking threat to just two shots on target.
Key Match Statistics
| Metric | Damac FC | Al-Nassr |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 0 | 2 |
| Possession (%) | 42 | 58 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 6 |
| Corners | 2 | 7 |
| Fouls | 11 | 9 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 1 |
League Standings Update
- 📈 Al-Nassr: Remain in 3rd place with 60 points, closing in on 2nd-placed Al-Hilal.
- 📉 Damac FC: Stay at 11th position with 31 points, facing a tough climb in the remaining fixtures.
How to Take Action
- 🧠 Al-Nassr fans can expect Ronaldo’s return in the upcoming AFC quarterfinal on April 26.
- 📺 Catch live broadcasts of Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League through official streaming partners.
- 📊 Fantasy league players should monitor player rotations closely with Al-Nassr’s tight match schedule.
Who Will Be Affected
- 🔄 Al-Nassr rotation players, who will play a larger role in upcoming matches.
- 🌍 Cristiano Ronaldo fans, eagerly awaiting his return on the continental stage.
- 🧠 Coaching staff, as they prepare for bigger tactical challenges ahead.
- 🏟️ Damac FC, now needing points to stay clear of the bottom half.
Ronaldo’s Absence Doesn’t Halt Al-Nassr as They Outclass Damac 2-0
The Damac vs Al-Nassr fixture demonstrated that the Riyadh-based giants can win even in the absence of their marquee players. With Ronaldo resting and Sadio Mané suspended, Al-Nassr’s depth and balance proved enough to secure three points. Now, all eyes shift to the AFC Champions League quarterfinal, where Ronaldo is expected to return and lead the charge.
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