In a bid to narrow the gap with Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr secured a crucial victory against Damac, clinching all three points in injury time.
Al-Nassr emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline against Damac, with Aymeric Laporte netting the decisive goal in injury time.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, who were initially benched by Al-Nassr coach Luis Castro, were brought on during the second half to inject energy into the attack.
Al Nassr Team (Via AlNassrFC/Twitter)
Castro’s decision to rest Ronaldo, who had recently scored consecutive hat-tricks against Abha and Al-Tai, and Mane, was strategic, with one eye on the upcoming Saudi Super Cup semi-final against Al-Hilal.
However, Ronaldo’s introduction proved pivotal, revitalizing the team’s offensive efforts and ultimately leading to Laporte’s late winner.
Despite Al-Nassr’s subdued starting lineup, Damac managed the match adeptly, limiting their opponents to just one shot on target throughout the game.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane (Via AlNassrFC/Twitter)
Fullback Dhari El-Enezi and Ramzi Sawlan notably contained Al-Nassr’s attacking threats from the flanks, although they were unfortunate to concede the winning goal from a well-executed corner routine.
Looking ahead, Al-Nassr is set to face Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup, with a victory propelling them into the final against either Al-Ittihad or Al-Wehda.
