Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Knocked Out by Japan’s Kawasaki in ACL Elite Semis

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr are out of the AFC Champions League Elite — and it came in dramatic fashion against Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale in Jeddah.

3-2 Defeat. Dreams Crushed.

In a wild semi-final on Wednesday, Kawasaki beat Al Nassr 3-2. Despite a late push and multiple chances in stoppage time — including two free kicks and a big miss from Ronaldo — the Saudi side couldn’t level it.

Here’s How It Happened:

• Tatsuya Ito opened the scoring for Kawasaki.
• Sadio Mané equalized in the 28th minute with a sharp finish.
• Just before halftime, Yuto Ozeki gave the Japanese side a 2-1 lead.
• In the 76th minute, Akihiro Ienaga made it 3-1.
• Iman Yahya pulled one back for Al Nassr in the 87th, but it wasn’t enough.

Ronaldo came so close — two late free kicks, one golden chance — but nothing went in. And just like that, Al Nassr’s shot at continental glory is over.

🏆 Who’s in the Final?

Al Ahli stunned fellow Saudi giants Al Hilal in Tuesday’s semi-final. That means it’s Al Ahli vs Kawasaki in the final, set for Saturday in Jeddah.