The Saudi team’s hopes for the Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr Trophy were dashed once more as they lost 1-0 to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final. It was the 12th time Ronaldo was denied a trophy with the club.
Al-Nassr were the bookmakers’ clear favourites to win the final. They hosted their own game in front of 26,000 fans at King Saud University Stadium. It was on the cards to be the big moment on which Ronaldo could finally grab a major trophy in Asia, and it was hoped he would succeed.
But it was football that again gave us a surprise. Gamba Osaka took advantage of a key opportunity in the 30th minute. Deniz Hummet got a fine pass from Issam Jebali and responded with a quick counter attack. The one goal was all it took to win the game.
Al-Nassr tried to respond in the second half. They were in possession and charging. However, they were not very precise in finishing. The Japanese side remained close and resolute and held their lead to the end.
This loss is not just one game, when considered from a wider perspective. It emphasizes Al-Nassr’s battle to turn a crop of superstars into winning games. He has one of the best players in football history and yet he has not been successful.
In my opinion, this is a waiting game and adaptation process. Ronaldo is still playing on his own, but football is still a team game. Even the best players can have a hard time without collective balance. It was also the result of a recent exasperation, with Al-Nassr given another chance to win a trophy but denied by an own goal late on. This defeat comes at a much opportune time.
