Japanese side to face Al-Ahli Jeddah in summit clash after thrilling 3-2 semifinal victory.
Kawasaki Frontale booked their spot in the AFC Champions League Elite 2025 final after edging past Saudi giants Al-Nassr 3-2 in a pulsating semifinal clash at Al-Inma Bank Stadium. The match, witnessed by 29,000 fans, saw Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of continental glory dashed for the second consecutive year, while Al-Nassr’s long wait for Asian silverware continued.
The Japanese outfit outclassed Al-Nassr with a disciplined and organized performance, leaving Italian manager Stefano Pioli scrambling for solutions. Kawasaki struck early in the 10th minute through a stunning long-range effort from Tatsuya, before Sadio Mane leveled for Al-Nassr in the 28th minute with a deflected shot past goalkeeper Jung Sung-ryong.
However, defensive lapses haunted the Saudi side as Kawasaki regained the lead before halftime. Wataru Wada capitalized on a defensive error to slot home in the 40th minute. Pioli’s desperate halftime changes, including the introduction of Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte and Brazilian midfielder Angelo, failed to stabilize the backline.
Kawasaki sealed their victory in the 76th minute when Erison finished off a slick team move down the left flank. A late consolation goal from Ayman Yahya (86’) gave Al-Nassr hope, but Ronaldo, despite two golden chances, could not inspire a comeback, exiting the tournament in heartbreak.
Pioli Takes Responsibility
A visibly frustrated Pecchia shouldered the blame in his post-match press conference, admitting, “The problem wasn’t just the coach or the players, the whole team was poor today.”
“In these conditions, football can be cruel. The opponent didn’t surprise me; what shocked me was how badly we played. We lost every duel, every battle on the field,” he added.
Looking ahead, Pioli stated Al-Nassr would now focus on securing the best possible finish in the Saudi Pro League before reassessing their plans at the end of the season.
Final Showdown Awaits
Kawasaki Frontale will now face Al-Ahli Jeddah in the final, aiming to clinch both of their maiden AFC Champions League title.
Kawasaki Frontale Stuns Al-Nassr to Reach AFC Champions League Elite 2025 Final
