In a pulsating Saudi Super Cup semifinal clash at the Hong Kong Stadium, Al-Nassr overcame adversity and a resilient Al-Ittihad side to secure a dramatic 2–1 victory and book their place in the final. The match had everything—early goals, a red card, VAR drama, and standout performances from marquee stars. Despite being reduced to ten men in the first half, Al-Nassr showed grit, tactical discipline, and flashes of brilliance to outlast their rivals in one of the most entertaining fixtures of the season so far.

Fast Start and Early Fireworks

Al-Nassr wasted no time asserting themselves, with Sadio Mané opening the scoring in the 10th minute. Marcelo Brozović delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, and Mané met it with a crisp volley that beat Al-Ittihad goalkeeper Hamed Al Shanqiti. The goal was a statement of intent, showcasing Al-Nassr’s attacking depth and fluidity.

However, the lead was short-lived. Just six minutes later, Al-Ittihad responded through Steven Bergwijn, who finished coolly from a Moussa Diaby cutback. The equalizer highlighted Al-Ittihad’s ability to exploit space on the flanks and their quick transition play.

The match took a dramatic turn in the 25th minute when Mané was shown a straight red card for a reckless stamp on Al Shanqiti. The dismissal left Al-Nassr with ten men for over an hour, forcing a tactical reshuffle and putting their defensive resolve to the test.

Tactical Adjustments and Defensive Steel

Manager Jorge Jesus responded swiftly to the red card, pulling Joao Felix deeper and instructing Kingsley Coman to track back more aggressively. The midfield trio of Brozović, Simakan, and Gabriel tightened their lines, while Inigo Martinez and Yahya anchored the backline with composure.

Al-Ittihad, sensing an opportunity, began to dominate possession and probe for openings. Karim Benzema, their talismanic striker, hovered around the box, waiting for a defensive lapse. But Al-Nassr’s goalkeeper Bento was alert, making crucial interventions and organizing his defense with authority.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Al-Nassr remained dangerous on the counter. Ronaldo, playing as a lone forward, used his experience to draw fouls, hold up play, and create space for Felix and Coman to exploit.

Felix Delivers the Decisive Blow

The turning point came in the 61st minute. Cristiano Ronaldo, drifting wide, delivered a perfectly timed cutback into the box. Joao Felix, arriving late, struck the ball cleanly into the bottom corner to give Al-Nassr a 2–1 lead. Initially ruled offside, the goal was awarded after a VAR review confirmed Ronaldo’s run was timed to perfection.

Felix’s goal was his first for Al-Nassr since joining from Chelsea, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. His movement, composure, and clinical finish under pressure showcased why the club invested heavily in his talent.

Al-Nassr nearly extended their lead minutes later when Felix hit the post with a curling effort from outside the box. Coman also came close, creating multiple chances and drawing fouls with his pace and dribbling.

Al-Ittihad’s Late Push

With time running out, Al-Ittihad threw everything forward. Benzema had a golden opportunity in the 78th minute when a defensive miscommunication allowed him a clear shot, but Bento made a reflex save to preserve the lead.

In stoppage time, Saleh Al Shehri rose highest to meet a corner, directing a powerful header toward goal. Bento, once again, was equal to the task, diving low to keep the ball out and secure the win.

Despite their efforts, Al-Ittihad couldn’t find the equalizer. Their attacking trio of Diaby, Aouar, and Bergwijn showed flashes of brilliance but lacked the final touch in key moments.

Standout Performers

Joao Felix was undoubtedly the man of the match. His goal, movement, and creativity were instrumental in Al-Nassr’s victory. He accounted for 1.22 of the team’s total expected goals (xG), with three shots and multiple key passes.

Cristiano Ronaldo played a pivotal role despite not scoring. His assist, leadership, and tactical awareness helped stabilize the team after Mané’s dismissal.

Kingsley Coman created four chances and was a constant threat on the right flank. His ability to beat defenders and deliver dangerous balls added a dynamic edge to Al-Nassr’s attack.

Bento, the goalkeeper, was heroic between the posts. His saves in critical moments and command of the box kept Al-Ittihad at bay.

Tactical Takeaways

Al-Nassr’s ability to adapt tactically after going down to ten men was impressive. Jorge Jesus’s decision to compact the midfield and rely on quick counters paid off. The team’s discipline, especially in the second half, was key to their success.

Al-Ittihad, on the other hand, struggled to capitalize on their numerical advantage. Their buildup play was often too slow, allowing Al-Nassr to regroup defensively. Benzema’s isolation in the final third highlighted a lack of support and urgency.

What’s Next

With this win, Al-Nassr advance to the Saudi Super Cup final, where they will face either Al-Qasidah or Al-Ahli. The victory also serves as redemption after last year’s 4–1 defeat to Al-Hilal in the final.

For Al-Ittihad, the loss is a setback, but their performance showed promise. With Benzema, Bergwijn, and Diaby in attack, they remain a formidable force in the Saudi Pro League and will look to bounce back in domestic competition.

Final Thoughts

The Al-Nassr vs Al-Ittihad clash was a showcase of elite talent, tactical depth, and competitive spirit. Despite the early red card, Al-Nassr demonstrated resilience and quality, with Joao Felix’s debut goal sealing a memorable win.

As the Saudi football landscape continues to attract global stars and deliver high-stakes drama, matches like this reaffirm the league’s growing stature. For fans, it was a night to remember—full of tension, brilliance, and the kind of football that keeps you on the edge of your seat.