Al-Nassr are set to host Damac in a decisive match at Al-Awwal Park. The Saudi Pro League title hangs in the balance as Al-Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, aim to secure their first league title since the 2018-19 season. The match presents a classic “winner takes all” scenario.
Al-Nassr’s Title Hopes
Al-Nassr controls their own destiny. A victory would bring them up to 86 points, making Al-Hilal’s result irrelevant. However, Al-Nassr knows how quickly dreams can unravel.
Just last week, Al-Nassr was moments away from popping the champagne in the Riyadh derby, only for a disastrous 98th-minute stoppage-time own goal from goalkeeper Bento to force a 1-1 draw. Adding to the tension is last Saturday’s heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League 2 final.
If Al-Nassr only manages a draw, they will finish on 84 points. In that scenario, an Al-Hilal win over Al-Fayha would leave both teams tied. Due to head-to-head records being identical, the title would be decided by goal difference.
Damac’s Fight for Survival
Damac will be fighting for their top-flight lives. They could still slip into the bottom three if results go against them. Damac will look to players like veteran Algerian defender, Abdelkader Bedrane and their Argentinian top goal scorer Valentín Vada to pull off what would be a monumental upset.
History is not on their side: Damac has failed to take a single point off Al-Nassr since April 2021 and hasn’t beaten a top-five side all season.
Al-Nassr’s Form and Key Players
Al-Nassr enters the final day unbeaten in their last 9 home league matches, winning eight. The hosts have scored in every single Saudi Pro League match this season.
While Marcelo Brozovic is doubtful with a groin injury, Al-Nassr’s attacking depth remains largely intact. Ronaldo is expected to spearhead the attack alongside João Félix and Sadio Mané, while Kingsley Coman is expected to play a key creative role in the midfield.
Expected Al-Nassr XI: Bento; Boushal, Simakan, Al-Amri, Martinez; Coman, Al-Najei, Al-Hassan, Mané; Félix, Ronaldo.
Expected Damac XI: Kerwin; Hawsawi, Harkass, Bedrane, Al-Obaid; Sylla, Abdullah, Vada; Meite, Arielson, Okita.
Will CR7 finally add a Saudi Pro League medal to his bursting trophy cabinet, or will Damac pull off the great escape and break Al-Nassr hearts on the final day?