This draw highlights Al-Nassr’s recurring issue of dropping points after taking the lead. According to league statistics, Al-Nassr is the second-worst team in the league in this regard, having lost 14 points from winning positions this season. This puts them alongside Al-Wehda, Damac, and Al-Shabab, who have also struggled to maintain leads.
In contrast, league leaders Al-Ittihad have only dropped 4 points after taking the lead, while Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli have lost 8 and 7 points, respectively. This inconsistency has left Al-Nassr languishing in the mid-table, far from the title race.
Injury Woes for Al-Nassr
Al-Nassr faced significant challenges heading into the match, with seven key players sidelined due to injuries. Notable absentees included Otávio, Aymeric Laporte, Sultan Al-Ghannam, Ali Lajami, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Sami Al-Najei, and Abdulrahman Ghareeb. These absences undoubtedly impacted the team’s performance.
Dominance Without Reward
Despite the draw, Al-Nassr dominated statistically, creating more dangerous chances and boasting a higher expected goals (xG) tally. However, their inability to convert these opportunities into a win left manager Stefano Pioli frustrated as his team dropped two crucial points.
As the season progresses, Al-Nassr will need to address their defensive issues and find a way to hold onto leads if they hope to climb the table and challenge for honors.
Al-Nassr’s Struggles: The second-worst team in the league
