Media365
Al-Zawra’a and Al-Nassr will meet in a much-anticipated AFC Champions League second-round fixture at Zawra Stadium in Iraq. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. ET, with fans around the world eagerly awaiting to see whether Cristiano Ronaldo will feature in the Saudi side’s lineup.Al-Nassr enter the clash with strong momentum following a recent win over Al-Ittihad, a team led by former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. Their confident domestic form carries over from a commanding 5–0 victory over Istiklol in their AFC Champions League opener. Notably, that result came without Ronaldo in the squad, as manager Jorge Jesus opted to rest his star forward and instead started Haroune Camara in the central attacking role.Camara made the most of his opportunity, contributing to a high-scoring display that demonstrated Al-Nassr’s attacking depth. Since then, Ronaldo has returned to form, scoring three goals across his last three matches. However, it remains unclear if he will start against Al-Zawra’a or be used as an impact substitute. Jesus may once again prioritize squad rotation, especially considering Al-Nassr’s busy domestic and continental schedule.On the other side, Al-Zawra’a are looking to regain stability. The Iraqi club sits 16th in the Iraqi Premier League after a recent draw and will be eager to make a statement on home soil. Facing a high-profile opponent like Al-Nassr presents both a challenge and an opportunity to test their mettle against one of Asia’s strongest sides.
Predicted Starting Lineups:
Al-Zawra’a:
- Goalkeeper: Hassan
- Defenders: Mohammed, Jabbar, Hashem, Ismail
- Midfielders: Bitang, Qasim, Al-Rashdan
- Wingers: Sayyid, Humaidan
- Forward: Hani
Al-Nassr:
- Goalkeeper: Bento
- Defenders: Al Ghanham, Alamri, Martinez, Ghareeb
- Midfielders: Westley, Al Khaibari, Angelo, Al Nasser
- Forwards: João Felix, Haroune Camara
While Al-Nassr boast an impressive squad with international experience and attacking firepower, Al-Zawra’a will be relying on home advantage and team cohesion to keep the visitors at bay. Playing in front of their own fans could provide the boost they need to elevate their game against the tournament favorites.
