Cristiano Ronaldo’s search for a first major title with Al Nassr continues after the Saudi side suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat on May 16, 2026 to Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final in Riyadh.
Coming into the match as clear favourites, Al Nassr were expected to take control and secure a historic continental crown, but instead they were punished for a lack of sharpness in the first half.
Despite dominating possession for long spells and creating several promising attacks, they struggled to break down a disciplined Gamba Osaka defensive line.
The decisive moment came in the 29th minute when Deniz Hümmet finished calmly from the edge of the box after a well-timed assist from Issam Jebali, giving the Japanese side a shock lead against the run of play.
After the break, Al Nassr raised the tempo significantly, committing more players forward and sustaining pressure in search of an equaliser.
However, Gamba Osaka remained compact, blocking shots and defending their box with discipline until the final whistle.
Head coach Jorge Jesus admitted his side were slow to start but insisted they improved after the opening stages, even though their dominance did not translate into goals when it mattered most.
The defeat adds further frustration for Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr in 2023 with high expectations of delivering major silverware. Instead, his wait for a first significant trophy in Saudi football continues.
The final was part of the AFC Champions League Two Final, a competition Al Nassr had targeted strongly as a chance to cement their dominance on the Asian stage.
Final chance remains
Despite the continental disappointment, Al Nassr still have one major objective left this season the Saudi Pro League title.
They remain firmly in the title race, sitting just ahead of rivals Al Hilal on the table, with a two-point advantage and only one match remaining. The final round now becomes decisive in determining the champions of the season.
Al Nassr will host Damac FC in their last league fixture, where victory would secure them the championship and potentially end their long wait for a major trophy since Ronaldo’s arrival.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal will travel away to face Al Fayha, hoping for any slip from their rivals to keep their own title hopes alive.
