Al Nassr vs Al Ahli: Jhon Duran saves Ronaldo 3 important points

Al Nassr vs Al Ahli, Al Nassr continued their impressive title chase in the Saudi Pro League 2024-25 season, securing a dramatic 3-2 victory over Al Ahli at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah. The match was filled with high-intensity action, VAR drama, and individual brilliance, with Jhon Duran emerging as the hero, scoring a sensational brace to power 10-man Al Nassr to a stunning win.

Despite going a man down after Mohamed Simakan’s red card, Stefano Pioli’s side showcased their resilience, with Duran’s late wonder goal sealing all three points. The Colombian striker combined superbly with Sadio Mane for his first goal before delivering a solo masterpiece in the dying moments of the match.

With this victory, Al Nassr secured their fifth consecutive league win, keeping their Saudi Pro League title hopes alive. Let’s break down this thrilling encounter and analyze how Al Nassr pulled off this incredible performance.

Jhon Duran’s Brace Inspires 10-Man Al Nassr vs Al Ahli Thrilling Victory

First Half: Al Nassr’s Early Domination and Duran’s Opener

From the opening whistle, Al Nassr showed their attacking intent, pressing high and forcing Al Ahli’s defense into making early mistakes. However, the home side almost shocked the visitors in the fifth minute when Riyad Mahrez found the net, but the goal was ruled offside after a quick VAR check.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 31st minute when Jhon Duran scored his first goal of the match. A beautifully executed one-two with Sadio Mane saw the Colombian striker receive the ball on the edge of the box before unleashing a low-driven shot into the bottom left corner.

This goal marked Duran’s third league goal since joining Al Nassr, highlighting his growing influence under Stefano Pioli.

Second Half: Controversy, Red Card, and Duran’s Brilliance

The second half began in explosive fashion as Al Ahli came out strong, determined to find an equalizer. Their efforts paid off in the 50th minute, as Ali Majrashi found the net, leveling the score at 1-1.

Just moments later, the game took a dramatic turn when Al Nassr’s Mohamed Simakan was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Ivan Toney. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee upheld the red card decision, forcing Al Nassr to play with 10 men for the remainder of the match.

Al Ahli continued their attacking momentum, and in the 78th minute, Ivan Toney finally got his goal, heading home a precise cross from Gabri Veiga to make it 2-1.

However, Al Nassr refused to back down. Just two minutes later, substitute Ayman Yahya capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home a clinical finish to restore parity at 2-2.

Duran’s Spectacular Solo Goal Seals the Win

The defining moment of the match came in the 88th minute, when Jhon Duran produced a moment of sheer brilliance.

Marcelo Brozovic intercepted a pass in midfield and quickly set Duran free with a perfect through-ball.
The Colombian striker displayed incredible pace, sprinting from inside his own half, outpacing two defenders.
As he approached the goalkeeper, he calmly slotted the ball home, securing a historic win for 10-man Al Nassr.

Despite Al Ahli pulling a goal back through Sumayhan Al-Nabit in stoppage time, Al Nassr held on to claim all three points.

Stefano Pioli’s Tactical Brilliance and Al Nassr’s Title Aspirations

Since Stefano Pioli’s arrival, Al Nassr has transformed into a formidable force in the Saudi Pro League. This victory marked their fifth consecutive win, keeping them firmly in the title race.

Key Tactical Takeaways from the Match:

✔ Resilience with 10 men – Despite the red card, Al Nassr stayed compact, preventing Al Ahli from dominating.
✔ Quick Counterattacks – The team capitalized on transitions, with Duran’s second goal being a perfect example.
✔ Sadio Mane’s playmaking role – Mane was instrumental in linking up play, assisting Duran’s first goal.

With Cristiano Ronaldo leading the attack, Sadio Mane providing creativity, and Jhon Duran stepping up, Al Nassr is building a title-winning team under Pioli.

Conclusion: Al Nassr’s Fighting Spirit Keeps Their Title Hopes Alive

Jhon Duran’s brilliant brace vs Al Ahli proved to be the difference-maker as 10-man Al Nassr secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory in the Saudi Pro League 2024-25 season.

With this win, Stefano Pioli’s men remain in the title hunt, showcasing their depth, resilience, and attacking firepower.

As the season progresses, Al Nassr will rely on stars like Duran, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sadio Mane to continue their winning momentum and challenge for the Saudi Pro League title.

GOOSEBUMPS! 💥
Ayman strikes, Ronaldo celebrates, and the world FEELS it! 🔥
pic.twitter.com/rPrHYQfGxe

— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) February 13, 2025

FAQs About Jhon Duran, Al Nassr, and the Saudi Pro League

1. How many goals has Jhon Duran scored for Al Nassr?

Duran has now scored five goals in the Saudi Pro League since joining Al Nassr, including his brilliant brace against Al Ahli.

2. What does this win mean for Al Nassr’s title race?

This victory keeps Al Nassr in the title race, marking their fifth consecutive league win as they chase Al Hilal and Al Ittihad.

3. How did VAR impact the game?

VAR played a huge role in the match, disallowing an early Al Ahli goal and confirming Simakan’s red card.

4. Who assisted Jhon Duran’s goals?

First Goal: Assisted by Sadio Mane after a one-two combination.
Second Goal: Assisted by Marcelo Brozovic following a midfield interception.

5. Can Jhon Duran become a key player for Al Nassr?

With his pace, finishing, and ability to perform under pressure, Duran has proven he can be a crucial player for Al Nassr alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.

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