The Saudi Pro League witnessed another exciting encounter on November 29, 2024, as Al-Nassr hosted Damac at the Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved his mettle, scoring a brilliant brace to secure a 2-0 victory for his team. The match demonstrated Al-Nassr’s determination to return to winning ways after their recent league setback. In this article we will explore Al-Nassr vs Damac match highlights and more.
Key Match Highlights
Minute | Event | Details |
17’ | GOAL – Cristiano Ronaldo | Ronaldo scored a penalty after a handball incident in the Damac box, putting Al-Nassr ahead. |
56’ | RED CARD – Bedrane (Damac) | Bedrane was sent off for a reckless tackle on Simakan, reducing Damac to 10 men. |
79’ | GOAL – Cristiano Ronaldo | A precise cutback from Boushal allowed Ronaldo to net his second with a left-footed finish. |
First Half Analysis
The game began with high intensity as Al-Nassr, eager to make a strong comeback, pressed hard in the opening minutes. Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo combined well, creating early chances that tested Damac’s defense.
Key Moments:
- 7’: Mane’s cutback was blocked before Ronaldo could make contact.
- 17’: Ronaldo’s penalty broke the deadlock after Bedrane’s handball in the box.
- 29’: Damac showed resilience, creating chances, but struggled to find the finishing touch.
At halftime, Al-Nassr led 1-0, with Ronaldo’s penalty being the only goal. Damac, although trailing, managed a few promising attacks.
Second Half Drama
The second half saw Al-Nassr take control of the game, especially after Damac’s captain Bedrane received a red card in the 56th minute for a dangerous tackle. This dismissal shifted momentum entirely in favor of the home team.
Game-Changing Moments:
- 56’: Bedrane’s red card left Damac with 10 players, significantly impacting their ability to compete.
- 79’: Ronaldo sealed the win with a clinical finish, thanks to Boushal’s assist.
Despite several attempts from Damac to pull one back, Al-Nassr’s defense remained solid, with goalkeeper Bento making crucial saves.
Player Performances : Al-Nassr vs Damac
Player | Team | Performance |
Cristiano Ronaldo | Al-Nassr | Scored both goals, leading his team to victory with a commanding performance. |
Sadio Mane | Al-Nassr | Played a supporting role, creating chances and linking up with Ronaldo. |
Bedrane | Damac | Received a red card, significantly weakening Damac’s defense. |
Kamano | Damac | Tried to create opportunities but lacked support after Bedrane’s dismissal. |
Tactical Insights : Al-Nassr vs Damac
Al-Nassr’s Strategy:
- Offensive Play: Al-Nassr utilized Ronaldo as the focal point, with Mane and Angelo providing support from the flanks.
- Midfield Control: Brozovic and Otavio dominated the midfield, ensuring smooth transitions.
Damac’s Approach:
- Defensive Compactness: Initially, Damac focused on a solid defensive structure, which worked until the penalty.
- Counterattacks: Their counterattacks lacked precision, especially after being reduced to 10 men.
Post-Match Analysis : Al-Nassr vs Damac
This victory was vital for Al-Nassr, especially after their previous league defeat against Al-Qadisiyah. The win not only boosts their confidence but also keeps them in contention for the top spots on the points table.
Current Standings (Top 4 Teams):
Position | Team | Points |
1 | Al-Ittihad | 38 |
2 | Al-Hilal | 35 |
3 | Al-Nassr | 30 |
4 | Al-Shabab | 28 |
Ronaldo’s Remarkable Form
Cristiano Ronaldo continues to shine in the Saudi Pro League, with his brace against Damac taking his season tally to 12 goals. His leadership on the field inspires his teammates, and his performance in this match was a testament to his enduring class.
Challenges for Damac
Damac faced significant challenges, especially after the red card to Bedrane. Playing with 10 men against a team like Al-Nassr proved too difficult. While Damac showed glimpses of potential, they need to improve their defensive discipline to avoid such setbacks in the future.
What’s Next? Al-Nassr vs Damac
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Al-Nassr: Faces Al-Hilal in a high-stakes encounter next week, which could define their title aspirations.
- Damac: Will host Al-Wehda, hoping to bounce back and climb the standings.
Conclusion : Al-Nassr vs Damac
The match between Al-Nassr and Damac showcased the dominance of Ronaldo and his team. With this win, Al-Nassr inches closer to the league leaders and strengthens its position as a title contender. Damac, on the other hand, needs to regroup and focus on their upcoming fixtures to avoid slipping further down the table.
The Saudi Pro League continues to deliver thrilling football, and all eyes will now be on Al-Nassr’s next clash against Al-Hilal.
FAQs : Al-Nassr vs Damac
- Who scored for Al-Nassr in their match against Damac?
Cristiano Ronaldo scored a brace, leading Al-Nassr to a 2-0 victory. - What was the turning point of the match?
The red card shown to Damac’s Bedrane in the 56th minute significantly shifted the momentum in favor of Al-Nassr. - Where was the match played?
The match took place at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. - How can I watch the Saudi Pro League matches live?
The matches are telecast on the Sony Sports Network and can be live-streamed on the SonyLiv app and website. - What is Al-Nassr’s current position in the Saudi Pro League table?
After this victory, Al-Nassr sits third in the league, eight points behind the leaders, Al-Ittihad.