Saudi Arabia’s football prowess was on full display as all three Saudi Pro League clubs, Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli, secured their spots in the semifinals of the Asian Champions League Elite, marking a historic achievement for the nation.
Al Nassr Crushes Yokohama F. Marinos 4-1
Stefano Pioli’s Al Nassr delivered a commanding performance against Japan’s Yokohama F. Marinos, winning 4-1 in a thrilling quarterfinal clash. The Saudi giants took control early, with Jhon Durán opening the scoring in the 27th minute after capitalizing on a defensive error. Sadio Mané doubled the lead just four minutes later, finishing a slick through ball from Otávio.
Cristiano Ronaldo made it 3-0 before halftime, volleying home after Yokohama’s goalkeeper failed to clear a looping ball. Durán struck again early in the second half, but Yokohama pulled one back through Kota Watanabe. Despite late pressure from the Japanese side, Al Nassr held firm, with Watanabe later receiving a second yellow card, ending Yokohama’s hopes of a comeback.
“We played well from the start, created chances, and deserved the win,” said Mané. “Our target is clear, we take it game by game.”
Al Ahli Joins Semifinals After Crushing Buriram United
Meanwhile, Al Ahli secured their place in the last four with a 3-0 victory over Thailand’s Buriram United. This marks only the second time in the club’s history that they’ve reached the semifinals. They now prepare for a high-stakes Saudi derby against Al Hilal on Tuesday, April 29, in Jeddah.
All-Saudi Semifinals Await
With Al Hilal already through, the tournament is guaranteed at least one Saudi finalist. The winner of the Al Ahli vs. Al Hilal clash will face Al-Nassr vs. Kawasaki frontale.
Saudi clubs have firmly established their dominance, setting the stage for a potential all-Saudi final and further cementing the Pro League’s rising stature in Asian football.
Saudi Dominance in Asian Champions League as Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli Reach Semifinals
