Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr advanced to the AFC Champions League Two final with a commanding 5-1 win over Al-Ahli SC, while Lionel Messi’s most recent continental club final technically came in the 2025 Leagues Cup, where Inter Miami lost 3-0 to the Seattle Sounders. The contrast between both stars adds context as Ronaldo moves closer to another title opportunity.
Al-Ahli took an early lead through Sekou Yansane in the 10th minute, but Al Nassr responded immediately. Kingsley Coman delivered a hat trick with goals in the 12th, 45+7, and 63rd minutes, while Angelo Gabriel added another in the 23rd. Abdullah Al-Hamdan capped the scoring with a goal in the 80th minute. Ronaldo, who recently reached 969 career goals, continues his push toward the historic 1,000-goal milestone.
The win keeps Al Nassr in strong form across competitions. Along with their continental success, the club leads the Saudi Pro League with 76 points, holding an advantage over Al-Hilal, who remain within reach with a game in hand.
Messi eyes future opportunities after 2025 Leagues Cup final
While Ronaldo prepares for another continental club final, Messi’s last appearance at that level technically came in the 2025 Leagues Cup final. Before that, his most recent global club final of that magnitude was the 2015 FIFA Club World Cup in Japan, where Barcelona defeated River Plate 3-0, with Messi opening the scoring.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF reacts during the MLS match. Andrew Wevers/Getty Images
Looking ahead, Messi could return to a continental final in 2026, with the Leagues Cup scheduled after the FIFA World Cup, between August and September. Having already won the competition in 2023, Inter Miami will once again aim to compete for the title against top clubs from MLS and Liga MX.
Cristiano Ronaldo could reportedly follow LeBron, Bronny James’ lead at Al Nassr next season
Ronaldo builds momentum ahead of another final
Ronaldo continues to play a key role in Al Nassr’s success, having already netted 24 goals in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season. Even late in his career, he remains central to the club’s ambitions both domestically and internationally.
SurveyWho will win more titles in 2026?
Who will win more titles in 2026?
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