AFCON 2025
Al Nassr overcame adversity to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League on February 13, 2025.
Despite being reduced to ten men early in the second half, the Riyadh-based side displayed resilience and attacking prowess, with Jhon Durán netting a crucial brace to lead his team to victory in Jeddah.
Al Nassr faced an early challenge when midfielder Otávio was forced to leave the pitch due to an injury in the 22nd minute, with Ayman Ahmed coming on as his replacement.
Despite this setback, Al Nassr broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute with Jhon Durán, netted the opening goal with a left-footed shot, assisted by Ayman Yahya.
The second half began with controversy as Al Nassr’s Mohamed Simakan received a red card in the 47th minute for violent conduct, reducing his team to ten men. Capitalizing on their numerical advantage, Al Ahli equalized in the 78th minute through Ivan Toney, who converted a pass from Gabri Veiga.
However, Al Nassr responded swiftly. Just two minutes later, Ayman Yahya restored their lead, making it 2-1. Jhon Durán then extended the advantage to 3-1 in the 88th minute, securing his brace with assistance from Marcelo Brozović.
Al Ahli fought back, with Sumayhan Al Nabit scoring in the 90+8th minute, but it proved to be merely a consolation as the match concluded 3-2 in favor of Al Nassr.
This victory solidifies Al Nassr’s position in the league as they are now 5 points behind leaders, Al Ittihad, keeping them in contention for top spot. They now prepare to face Persepolis in the AFC Champions League on February 17, 2025.
