JYNEWS, Al Wahda vs. Al-Nassr : The Saudi Pro League heats up as struggling Al Wahda host Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr at the King Abdul Aziz Stadium on February 25, 2025. With Al Wahda fighting relegation and Al-Nassr chasing a top-three finish, this clash promises fireworks. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of kick-off.
Al Wahda’s season has been a disaster. Rooted to the bottom of the table with just 13 points from 21 games, they’ve lost six of their last seven matches. Their defense is the league’s worst, leaking 51 goals—eight more than any other team. A recent 1-0 loss to Al-Kholood highlighted their inability to grind out results. Manager Daniel Carreño faces a monumental task to inspire a turnaround.
Al-Nassr, meanwhile, are desperate to bounce back after a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Al-Ettifaq. Leading 2-1 until the 82nd minute, they collapsed late, conceding an own goal and a stoppage-time winner. The loss leaves them fourth, three points adrift of the AFC Champions League spots. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane in attack, they’ll aim to exploit Al Wahda’s frailties and reignite their campaign.
History heavily favors Al-Nassr, who’ve won 28 of 46 meetings. Al Wahda last tasted victory in 2019, and Al-Nassr have netted 16 goals in their last five encounters. Expect the visitors to dominate again.
: Midfielder Nawaf Al-Azizi (cruciate ligament injury since August 2024).
: Carreño has a full squad otherwise. Veteran striker Odion Ighalo will lead the line, supported by Craig Goodwin and Youssef Amyn.
: Jhon Durán (suspended after a red card), Otavio (injury), Sami Al-Najei (long-term injury).
: Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane will spearhead the attack. Aymeric Laporte anchors the defense.
Al-Owaishir (GK); Al-Salem, El Yamiq, Al-Hafith, Al-Muwallad; Bacuna, Cretu; Goodwin, Al-Najei, Amyn; Ighalo.
Bento (GK); Boushal, Al-Fatil, Laporte, Qasheesh; Yahya, Brozović, Al-Hassan; Ghareeb, Ronaldo, Mané.
: With 45 league goals this season, Al-Nassr’s attack will target Al Wahda’s leaky backline. Ronaldo’s movement and finishing could spell disaster.
: Al Wahda’s Craig Goodwin is their creative spark. His crosses and set-pieces might test Al-Nassr’s defense.
: Marcelo Brozović’s composure in midfield will be crucial to breaking Al Wahda’s press and feeding Ronaldo.
Al-Nassr’s firepower should overwhelm Al Wahda’s defense. Ronaldo and Mané will exploit gaps, while Al Wahda’s Ighalo might snatch a consolation. Expect over 2.5 goals and both teams to score.
: Al-Nassr Win
: Over 2.5
: Cristiano Ronaldo
: Check local sports channels in Saudi Arabia (SSC, KSA Sports).
: Sofascore (live updates), YouTube (highlights post-match).
: 15:15 UTC | 20:45 IST | 15:15 GMT.
: Can Al Wahda avoid relegation?
A: They’re four points from safety with seven games left. Survival hinges on defensive improvements and stealing points against top teams.
: Will Ronaldo score?
A: Likely. He’s netted 22 goals this season and thrives in high-stakes games.
: Why has Al-Nassr struggled recently?
A: Defensive lapses and midfield injuries (Otavio) have disrupted their rhythm.
: Which players could surprise us?
A: Al Wahda’s Youssef Amyn—a young winger with pace. Al-Nassr’s Abdulrahman Ghareeb—creative and direct.
: What’s at stake for Al-Nassr?
A: A top-three finish ensures AFC Champions League qualification. Missing out would be a massive blow.
Al-Nassr’s quality should prevail, but Al Wahda’s desperation might make this nervy. Tune in for Ronaldo’s magic and a potential goal-fest!
: Ronaldo’s duel with Ighalo, Al-Nassr’s counterattacks, and Al Wahda’s last stand in Mecca.