Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved decisive as Al-Nassr secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League on Wednesday, defeating fellow Saudi Pro League side Al-Fayha with a convincing 2-0 victory, sealing a 3-0 aggregate win.
Building on their 1-0 away victory in the first leg, courtesy of Ronaldo's late goal, Al-Nassr displayed a dominant performance at home. The opening goal came in the 17th minute when Abdullah Al-Khaibari's deep cross found Otavio, who emphatically headed home.
Despite Al-Fayha's efforts to contain their star-studded opponents, Al-Nassr maintained control, with Ronaldo hitting the crossbar from a Marcelo Brozovic free-kick just before halftime.
In the second half, Ronaldo thought he had extended the lead early on, only for his goal to be disallowed for offside. However, with five minutes remaining, he broke through the defense and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to seal the victory.
Al-Nassr coach Luis Castro expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, emphasizing their hard work and determination.
Al-Fayha coach Vuk Rasovic praised his team's effort despite the disappointment, acknowledging Al-Nassr's superior quality.
In the quarter-finals, Al-Nassr will face Emirati side Al-Ain on March 4 and 11.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad aim to join Al-Nassr in the last eight. Al-Hilal hold a 3-1 advantage after the first leg against Sepahan in Iran, while Al-Ittihad, after a goalless draw in their initial encounter with Uzbek side Navbahor, seek to secure their spot at home in Jeddah.