Stefano Pioli’s Al Nassr earned their place in the semifinals of the 2025 AFC Champions League after a commanding 4-1 victory over Yokohama Marinos on April 26. With their domestic league title hopes diminished, the Riyadh-based club has redirected its focus toward continental glory. This semifinal clash marks the first-ever meeting between Al Nassr and Kawasaki Frontale in official AFC competition—an unprecedented and high-stakes encounter.
Al Nassr’s goals in the quarterfinals came courtesy of a brace from Jhon Jáder Durán (27’ and 49’), Sadio Mané (31’), and Cristiano Ronaldo (38’). Yokohama’s lone response was scored by Kota Watanabe in the 53rd minute.
Kawasaki Frontale, on the other hand, endured a much more demanding route to the semifinals. After drawing 2-2 in regulation against Al Sadd, they advanced with a 3-2 extra-time victory. Goals for the Japanese side were scored by Erison (4’) and Marcinho (21’) in regular time, with Yasuto Wakizaka delivering the decisive strike in the 98th minute. Al Sadd had equalized earlier through Paulo Otavio (9’) and Claudinho (71’). Known as the “Gremio of Japan”, Kawasaki Frontale arrive with momentum and ambition.
What happens if Al Nassr beat the Kawasaki Frontale?
A victory over Kawasaki Frontale would send Al Nassr to the final of the 2025 AFC Champions League, where they would face Al Ain, who stunned favorites Al Hilal. For Cristiano Ronaldo and company, it would mark the club’s second appearance in a continental final, the last being in 1995.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr runs off the ball during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Qadsiah and Al Nassr at Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium on April 18, 2025 in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
What happens if Al Nassr and Kawasaki Frontale tie?
Should the game be tied after 90 minutes, the rules of the competition stipulate that extra time will be played—two 15-minute halves. If the deadlock remains, the match will proceed to a penalty shootout to determine who advances to the final.
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Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing today? Al Nassr face Kawasaki Frontale in 2025 AFC Champions League semifinals
What happens if Al Nassr lose to the Kawasaki Frontale?
Should Al Nassr fall to Kawasaki Frontale, their journey in the 2025 AFC Champions League will come to an end, with the Japanese side advancing to the final. For Pioli’s squad, it would mark a disappointing conclusion to their continental campaign.
