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January 18, 2025 at 2:50 AM

Al Nassr's Title Hopes Dwindle After 1-1 Draw

Al Nassr's 1-1 draw against Al Taawoun further dents their title ambitions as they fall 11 points behind Saudi Pro League leaders Al Hilal.

Al Nassr's Title Hopes Dwindle After 1-1 Draw

Al Nassr’s championship aspirations took another hit as they were held to a 1-1 draw against Al Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League. This result extended their winless streak to five matches, leaving the team in fourth place with 29 points, a daunting 11-point gap behind league leaders Al Hilal.

The match began with Al Nassr displaying attacking intent, led by star player Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the home side, Al Taawoun, capitalized on a counter-attack in the dying moments of the first half. In the 45+5 minute, Fhad Al Jumayah delivered a pinpoint cross to midfielder Saad Al Nasser, who smashed the ball into the net, giving Al Taawoun a 1-0 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Al Nassr intensified their efforts, dominating possession and pushing for an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Brazilian winger Angelo provided a precise cross into the penalty area. Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte rose above the defense to head the ball home, leveling the score at 1-1.

Despite controlling much of the game, Al Nassr struggled to find a winning goal, with several chances going unconverted. The draw highlighted the team’s recent struggles in converting dominance into victories, an issue that has plagued them throughout the season.

Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo, Saudi Pro League, Al Taawoun, Stefano Pioli, Aymeric Laporte, Angelo, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, AFC Champions League - SUP Football

Following the match, head coach Stefano Pioli faced questions about the team’s form. Pioli acknowledged the challenges, stating, "We need to improve our finishing and regain confidence. The players are working hard, and I believe we can turn things around."

The draw leaves Al Nassr’s title hopes hanging by a thread. With fierce competition from Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, the team must rediscover their winning ways quickly to remain in contention. Their upcoming AFC Champions League fixtures, including a crucial match against Persepolis, present an opportunity to shift momentum and rebuild confidence.

As the pressure mounts, Cristiano Ronaldo’s leadership and the team’s ability to respond will be pivotal. Al Nassr fans remain hopeful that their squad can rise to the challenge and keep their title dreams alive.