Al The match starts at 6:15 pm local time (3:15 pm Brasília time). Cristiano Ronaldo was not included in the match, being left out of the lineup and on the bench due to a technical decision by Jorge Jesus, who chose to rotate the squad and preserve the player after an intense sequence of games. The Saudi team enters the field with a 1-0 lead achieved in the first leg in Ashgabat, a goal scored by Abdullah Al Hamdan. The absence of Ronaldo represents a significant change in the starting lineup compared to previous matches of the season.
The Saudi club maintains a good phase in the competition and seeks to confirm its place in the quarter-finals. The strategy prioritizes a balance between solid defense and speed in counterattacks.
Al Nassr confirmed lineup
Jorge Jesus selected Al Aqidi in goal; the defensive line has Al Najdi, Al Sharari, Al Hassan and Boushal. In midfield, Angelo, Yahya, Ghareeb and Maran play, while Al Hamdan leads the attack as an offensive reference. The formation maintains the base that won the first game, focusing on quick transitions and occupying spaces. Brozovic, Coman, João Félix and Mané appear among the substitutes and can be used to change the pace of the match if necessary.
Probable lineup for Arkadag
Arkadag must line up Caryyev in goal; defense with Annagulyyev, Byashimov, Saparow and Ballakow. The midfield brings together Hydyrow, Gurbanow, Beknazarow and Mammedov, and the attack has Sapargulyyev and Meredov. The Turkmen team needs to reverse the aggregate score and bet on defensive organization to try to surprise. Mergen Orazov maintains practically the same formation as the first game, with minimal adjustments to seek greater aggression.
Where to watch live and stream online
The Al Nassr x Arkadag match will be broadcast live on ESPN 2 and Disney+ on Brasil. Torcedores also follows the Disney streaming platform, which offers narration in Portuguese and complete coverage of AFC Champions League Two. Atualizações in real time are available on portals specializing in Asian football.
Latest results and recent performance
Al Nassr arrives motivated by eight consecutive victories in different tournaments before the first game. Nos last five commitments, the team won four wins and a draw, with good offensive performance even without Ronaldo at times. Arkadag alternated results in the group stage and previous knockouts, with two wins, two draws and one defeat in the last five games. Al Hamdan’s goal in the first duel in Ashgabat defined the minimum advantage that the Saudis defend at home.
Curiosities about the confrontation
Al Nassr participates in the AFC Champions League Two for the first time in its current structure, after experiences in other continental phases. The Arkadag represents the football of the Turcomenistão and tries to advance in a high-level continental knockout stage. Demand for tickets at Al-Awwal Park was high, with online sales selling out most of the available sectors.
Game conditions and refereeing
The arbitration will be conducted by a team designated by the AFC, guaranteeing neutrality in the eliminatory duel. Em Riade, the weather should remain dry overnight, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C at match time, with no rain or strong wind expected to compromise the pitch.
