Al‑Nassr fall short again as Gamba Osaka claim ACL Two title

Al‑Nassr suffered another painful setback on Saturday, losing 1–0 to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final at Al‑Awwal Park and finishing runners‑up despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence. Deniz Hummet scored the decisive goal, ending the Portuguese star’s hopes of securing his first major title with the Saudi club.

Although Al‑Nassr lifted the Arab Champions Cup in 2023, that trophy is not considered significant internally. The team now shifts its focus to the Saudi League, where they lead Al‑Hilal by two points with one round remaining. Al‑Nassr started brightly, but Ronaldo missed an early free‑kick before Hummet converted Gamba Osaka’s first real chance.

VAR confirmed the goal despite protests. Jorge Jesus’ side pushed hard for an equaliser, with João Félix hitting the post and Ronaldo threatening from set pieces, but the Japanese club held firm. A late penalty appeal was dismissed, allowing Gamba Osaka to celebrate their first triumph in Asia’s secondary competition.