In a stunning upset, Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale defeated Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr 3-2 in the Asian Champions League Elite semi-final on Wednesday, securing their place in the continental final for the first time.
The match saw Kawasaki Frontale, considered underdogs, overcome the big-spending Saudi Pro League team. Tatsuya Ito opened the scoring for the J-League side in the 10th minute with a spectacular volley. Al Nassr’s Sadio Mane equalized in the 28th minute, his shot deflecting past Kawasaki goalkeeper Louis Yamaguchi.
However, Kawasaki Frontale quickly regained their lead just before halftime. Ito’s persistence in attack led to a rebound goal by Yuto Ozeki. Akihiro Ienaga extended Kawasaki’s lead in the 76th minute, capitalizing on a setup from Erison.
Al Nassr’s Aiman Yahya scored a long-range goal in the 87th minute, setting up a tense finish. Despite late pressure and two desperate attempts from Ronaldo, Kawasaki Frontale held on for the victory.
“It was a very difficult game but the players were able to show their best performance on the pitch,” said Frontale coach Shigetoshi Hasebe. “We’re showing what we’ve been building since pre-season and I’m happy with that.”
Kawasaki Frontale will now face another Saudi Arabian team, Al Ahli, in the final on Saturday. Both teams will be vying for their first-ever Asian Champions League title.
