On March 10, 2025, Saudi Arabia's Al-Nasr celebrated victory at home against Iran's Esteghlal, securing a spot in the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League with a decisive 3-0 win. This performance not only avenged their previous 0-0 stalemate but showcased the team's strength and determination.
The match at Al-Nasr's home ground in Riyadh featured two goals from Colombian forward Djon Duran and one penalty kick from the renowned Cristiano Ronaldo. Duran opened the scoring early on, with his first goal coming just nine minutes after kick-off. Ronaldo then doubled the lead with his successful conversion of the penalty shot on the 27th minute. The dominance of Al-Nasr was evident as they continued to control the game, with Duran finding the back of the net once more at the 84th minute.
Throughout the match, Al-Nasr exhibited remarkable control, not only by leading on the scoreboard but also boasting impressive statistics, with 22 shots taken, 68% possession of the ball, and 90% accuracy rate on passes. Such statistics demonstrate the team's strategic superiority over Esteghlal.
Unfortunately for Esteghlal, the challenges amplified when Mehrdan Ahmadi, their midfielder, was sent off permanently during injury time of the first half for receiving his second yellow card. This red card left Esteghlal shorthanded and unable to mount any considerable resistance against Al-Nasr’s attack.
After the match, commentary around Al-Nasr’s performance highlighted their ability to capitalize on every opportunity presented to them. "Duran opened the scoring, and Ronaldo converted a penalty, leading to this resounding win," noted Match TV. This encapsulates the evening's triumph, focusing on key players making significant contributions.
Esteghlal, who recently appointed Miodrag Bozovic as head coach on February 26, 2025, hoped for improvement moving forward but faced significant challenges as they exited the tournament. Al-Nasr's victory moved them firmly onto the next stage, proving their competence and readiness for tougher matches to come.
With their eyes set on the ultimate prize, Al-Nasr's players and management expressed optimism for advancing even farther. Each victory not only boasts the club’s skills but also solidifies the loyal fan support back home, continuously cheering for their success.
This remarkable showing has placed Al-Nasr among the elite teams of the Asian Champions League this season. Their performance last night was more than just about winning; it signified strength, teamwork, and resilience from the home team, traits they will carry with them as they advance to the quarter-finals.
Looking forward, Al-Nasr aims to sustain this high level of play and will need to prepare thoroughly for the next round of competition. On the other hand, Esteghlal will need to regroup and reassess their strategy as they prepare for their domestic challenges, still bolstered by the recent management change under Bozovic.
With the competitive spirit alive and well, both teams will continue to strive for success on their respective paths, making this season of the AFC Champions League one to watch.