As the 2024/25 Saudi Pro League season nears its climax, the title race has intensified, with only a handful of matches left to determine the champion. Al Nassr, led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, remains a key contender as they face Damac in a crucial Matchday 29 clash on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The stakes are high, with Al Nassr looking to secure a victory that could propel them to second place in the standings, currently occupied by their fierce rivals, Al Hilal.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Ronaldo has been left out of the matchday squad. This decision comes as part of a load management strategy by head coach Stefano Pioli, who is prioritizing the team's upcoming AFC Champions League quarter-final against Yokohama F. Marinos later in the week. "Ronaldo has been excluded from the 20-man squad for the crucial league clash," reported A Bola, emphasizing Pioli's intention to keep the star player fresh for the continental showdown.
In Ronaldo's absence, 20-year-old Colombian striker John Jader Duran is set to lead Al Nassr's attack. Duran, who has been making waves in the league, will aim to capitalize on this opportunity and deliver a strong performance against Damac. Alongside him will be fellow forwards Wesley and Angelo, as Al Nassr seeks to maintain their title hopes amidst the pressure of the title race.
Al Nassr's confirmed lineup for the match against Damac is as follows: Bento in goal, with defenders Sultan, Simakan, Laporte, and Salem forming the backline. In midfield, Ayman, Brozovic, and Alkhaibari will look to control the game, while the forward trio of Wesley, Angelo, and Duran aims to break down Damac's defense.
Currently sitting in 11th place, Damac has had a challenging season, accumulating 31 points from 28 matches with a record of eight wins, seven draws, and 13 losses. Their home performances have been inconsistent, but they will be looking to capitalize on Al Nassr's weakened lineup. The last time these two teams met, Al Nassr emerged victorious, and they have a strong historical record against Damac, winning nine out of their last twelve encounters.
As the match kicks off at the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium in Abha, the excitement is palpable. Fans are eager to see how Al Nassr will adapt without their talisman, Ronaldo. The first half begins with Al Nassr looking to assert their dominance early on, but Damac is equally determined to make a statement.
In the opening exchanges, Al Nassr's attack appears somewhat toothless without Ronaldo, struggling to create clear-cut chances. However, they do manage to take the lead with a stunning strike from Ali AlI-Hassan, who fired a rocket from outside the box, showcasing Al Nassr's attacking potential despite the absence of their captain.
But Damac quickly retaliates. Nicolae Stanciu finds space in the Al Nassr box and equalizes with a well-placed shot, bringing the score to 1-1. The match is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams exchanging blows in a bid to secure vital points.
As the first half progresses, Al Nassr continues to push forward, but their efforts are met with resistance from Damac's defense. Salem Al-Najdi receives a yellow card for a foul on Stanciu, highlighting the intensity of the match. With the half-time whistle approaching, Al Nassr is awarded a penalty, but the referee overturns the decision after a VAR check shows no conclusive evidence of a foul.
With six minutes of added time signaled, both teams scramble to make an impact before the break. Al Nassr's Duran lines up a free-kick but shoots over the bar, a missed opportunity that leaves fans frustrated. The half ends with the score tied at 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting second half.
As the teams return to the pitch for the second half, the tension is palpable. Al Nassr needs to find a way to break the deadlock and keep their title hopes alive. Pioli's tactical adjustments will be crucial as they look to exploit Damac's weaknesses.
However, the match continues to be a battle of attrition, with both teams creating chances but failing to convert. Al Nassr's attacking players, including Duran and Wesley, are finding it difficult to penetrate Damac's defense, which is holding firm under pressure.
Despite the absence of Ronaldo, Al Nassr remains a formidable force, but they need to step up their game to secure the three points. With the clock ticking down, every moment counts as both teams vie for victory.
As the match approaches its conclusion, Damac manages to take the lead with a well-executed corner kick that catches Al Nassr's defense off guard. The hosts capitalize on the moment, sending their fans into a frenzy.
In the dying moments of the match, Al Nassr's Laporte equalizes with a header from a corner, bringing the score to 2-2. The excitement is palpable as both teams push for a late winner, but time runs out, and the match ends in a draw.
With the title race still wide open, Al Nassr will need to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their crucial AFC Champions League quarter-final against Yokohama F. Marinos. The absence of Ronaldo was felt, but the team's resilience and determination showcased their potential as they continue to chase silverware this season.
