Cristiano Ronaldo sets up Felix as Al-Nassr edges past Al-Ittihad

HONG KONG: Al-Nassr overcame a tough challenge to beat Al-Ittihad 2-1 in their Saudi Super Cup semi-final at Hong Kong Stadium.

Sadio Mane gave Al-Nassr a bright start with an early volley after ten minutes. But just 15 minutes later, Mane was sent off following a reckless challenge on the Al-Ittihad goalkeeper. The red card, confirmed after a VAR review, left Al-Nassr with ten men for the rest of the game.

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Al-Ittihad hit back quickly

Al-Ittihad took advantage of the extra player. Steven Bergwijn levelled the score in the 16th minute, finishing off a quick counterattack.

With the game balanced, Al-Nassr focused on staying organised and defending well despite being a man short, while Al-Ittihad tried to push for the go-ahead goal.

Joao Felix’s goal

The breakthrough came in the second half. Joao Felix, who joined Al-Nassr from Chelsea in July, scored the winning goal in the 61st minute. Cristiano Ronaldo set up the move with a clever pass from the right.

Felix came close to adding a second goal when a shot was ruled out for a foul following another VAR check. He also hit the post later in the game, causing problems for the Al-Ittihad defense/

Al-Nassr’s strong defense holds on

Despite being under pressure, Al-Nassr’s defense stayed solid. New coach, Jorge Jesus’s tactics helped the team manage the game well with just ten men.

Veteran defender Inigo Martinez played an important part in keeping Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema quiet. Al-Ittihad struggled to find the quality chances they needed to level the match.

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Al-Ittihad missed chances to score late, while Al-Nassr kept their lead to reach the final.

Saudi Super Cup 2025 final

Al-Nassr will now face either Al-Qadsiah or Al-Ahli in Saturday’s final.