Cristiano Ronaldo’s wait for a major trophy with Al Nassr continues after the Saudi club suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final on Saturday.
Despite controlling most of the match and creating several chances, Al Nassr could not find a way past a disciplined Osaka defense in Riyadh. The visitors made the most of their only shot on target, with Deniz Hümmet scoring the decisive goal in the 29th minute.
The result adds another painful chapter to Ronaldo’s time in Saudi Arabia. Since joining Al Nassr in December 2022, the Portuguese superstar has now lost four finals with the club. His only trophy success remains the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup, a tournament not officially recognized by FIFA.
The defeat comes just days after another major disappointment for Al Nassr. Earlier this week, the team was moments away from securing the Saudi Pro League title for the first time since 2019, only to concede a late stoppage-time goal that pushed the title race to the final matchday.
Saturday’s final followed a frustrating pattern for the home side. Al Nassr enjoyed the better possession and attacking opportunities early on, but Osaka struck first against the run of play. Hümmet received the ball just inside the penalty area, turned quickly, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner. A lengthy VAR review checked for offside before the goal was eventually confirmed.
“I am happy to score and help the team and to do my best for this club,” Hümmet said after the match. “I was nervous watching in the second half but the most important thing is that we won and I am proud of my teammates. Now it is time to celebrate and enjoy.”
Osaka then focused on protecting their lead, defending with organization and discipline against Al Nassr’s star-studded attack.
Ronaldo had one of the best opportunities to level the match just before halftime, but his close-range header from a João Félix cross drifted wide of the post. Félix, who arrived from Chelsea in July, nearly rescued the hosts late in the game when his powerful low strike from outside the box hit the post with just 13 minutes remaining.
Even with the disappointment of losing the continental final, Al Nassr’s domestic title hopes are still alive. The club currently sits two points ahead of Al Hilal heading into Thursday’s decisive league clash against Damac.
For Ronaldo and Al Nassr, however, another missed opportunity will sting — especially after coming so close to ending their long wait for silverware.
