In a pulsating Saudi Pro League clash at Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium in Abha on Tuesday, Al Nassr, without star Cristiano Ronaldo, clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory against Damac. Sultan Al-Ghannam’s stoppage-time goal sealed three crucial points for the Riyadh side in a five-goal thriller.

The match sparked to life early when Damac’s Ramzi Solan struck in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a precise left-flank cross. Al Nassr responded swiftly, with Aymeric Laporte leveling the score at 1-1 in the 24th minute from a corner. The second half saw intensified action. Ali Alhassan fired a rocket in the 70th minute, assisted by Brozovic, to give Al Nassr a 2-1 lead. Damac fought back, as Nicolae Stanciu’s stunning left-footed curler in the 73rd minute made it 2-2. Just when a draw seemed likely, Al-Ghannam’s 94th-minute strike sparked wild celebrations. “The team showed incredible resilience without Ronaldo,” Al Nassr’s coach remarked.

Damac displayed attacking intent, particularly in the second half, but defensive lapses proved costly. A controversial moment arose in the 79th minute when Abdulrahman Al-Obaid’s tackle on Otavio in the penalty area prompted a VAR review. Despite Al Nassr’s protests, the referee upheld his no-penalty call. Al Nassr’s Jhon Duran struggled initially but found his rhythm after the break, troubling Damac’s backline. Damac’s captain Farouk Chafai, despite an injury scare, soldiered on. Al Nassr’s relentless pressure, coupled with Damac’s missed chances, tilted the game.

With 57 points from 28 matches, third-placed Al Nassr keeps the Saudi Pro League 2024-25 title race alive, closing the gap on second-placed Al Hilal (62 points). Damac’s coach reflected, “We created opportunities, but small errors cost us dearly.” This victory highlights Al Nassr’s depth and determination, ensuring they remain a formidable force in the race for the championship.