Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Lose AFC Champions League 2 Final to Gamba Osaka

• By Thetripurapost Web Desk, Riyadh
• May 17, 2026
• 529

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr FC suffered a shocking 1-0 defeat against Japan’s Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League 2 final.

Despite dominating possession and creating several goal-scoring chances, Al Nassr failed to break through Gamba Osaka’s solid defensive line during the high-stakes continental clash.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr in December 2022, missed a crucial opportunity to level the score before halftime when his close-range header from João Félix’s cross sailed wide of the goal.

The match-winning goal came in the 30th minute through Gamba Osaka forward Deniz Hamet, who fired a precise low strike into the bottom corner from inside the penalty area.

The goal underwent a lengthy VAR review before officials confirmed it as valid, giving the Japanese club a crucial lead in the final.

Deniz Hamet, who was substituted at halftime due to injury, expressed happiness after helping Gamba Osaka secure the prestigious AFC title.

“I’m extremely happy to score in such an important final and help my team win the championship. Watching the second half from the bench was difficult, but our defenders were outstanding,” Hamet said after the match.

Al Nassr continued pressing for an equaliser in the second half, with João Félix coming agonisingly close in the 77th minute after his powerful long-range shot struck the goalpost.

The defeat added to a disappointing week for Al Nassr supporters, especially after the club missed an opportunity to seal the Saudi Pro League title earlier this week following a late equaliser from their rivals.

However, Al Nassr still remains in control of the Saudi Pro League title race and currently sits two points ahead of Al Hilal SFC in the standings.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr can still clinch the Saudi Pro League trophy if they defeat Damac FC in their final league match on Thursday.