AFC Champions League
Pressure on Cristiano and Al Nassr ahead of AFC Champions League playoff
The Saudi Pro League club have qualified for a playoff place by virtue of coming runners up in the overall table last season.
Despite the 2023-24 season being in its infancy, Al Nassr face a pivotal game in Riyadh on Tuesday that already could me a make or break match for the overall campaign.
Finishing second in the Roshn Saudi League last season, saw Al-Alami secure a playoff place with a one off game against UAE outfit Shabab Al-Ahli with the winners securing a place in the group stage in the 23-23 AFC Champions League.
Saudi trio of Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and 21-22 Cup winners Al Fayha have already guaranteed places in the group stage with Al Nassr hoping to complete the quartet.
Shaky start to new season
Despite claiming their first ever Arab Club Champions trophy with a win over Al Hilal in the final on 12 August, the start to the new domestic season has been a disaster as the club prop up the table following two defeats in their opening two games.
The AFC Champions League game now sees the club under additional pressure as they are the clear favorite to win the tie despite playing the current UAE league champions.
Should Al Nassr advance, their group stage action gets underway on 18-20 September with Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds the current holders.