Sports
Al-Nassr vs Al-Wasl Match Postponed Amid Flight Issues
By Today News Hours Editorial Desk
Ange Postecoglou’s Saudi Pro League champions Al‑Nassr were set to play Al‑Wasl in the Asian Champions League Elite, but the match was postponed on Monday (Tuesday AEDT) after the United Arab Emirates club reported logistical problems with available flights to Riyadh. The postponement halted Postecoglou’s bid to record back‑to‑back wins in the competition.
Al‑Ain continued their perfect start to the western league phase, defeating Tractor FC of Iran 2‑1. Title holders Al‑Ahli secured a late 2‑1 victory over a 10‑man Al‑Gharafa side. Al‑Ain, who won the trophy in 2024, earned their third consecutive win when Houssine Rahimi scored his fifth goal in three matches with 20 minutes remaining at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium. The Moroccan forward said, "This competition is important and we need to collect points early on. That is what we managed to do in these three matches we have played, earning nine points. This is very important for us."
Al‑Ahli began well in Jeddah against Qatari visitors, taking a fourth‑minute lead through England international Ivan Toney. Florinel Coman equalised eight minutes into the second half. With 13 minutes remaining, Seydou Sano was sent off for a second bookable offence, leaving Al‑Gharafa short‑handed. Al‑Ahli capitalised with Matheus Goncalves scoring the winner four minutes from time. Goncalves said, "We know that our primary focus isn't just being at the top of the table. We have to qualify, and qualify well, so that afterwards we can take advantage of our home matches and get the job done at home."
Elsewhere, Al‑Qadsiah drew 1‑1 with Al‑Sadd of Qatar, and Iraq’s Air Force Club earned their first win of the campaign with a 1‑0 victory over Uzbekistan’s Pakhtakor.
The first eight finishers in the league phase in West and East Asia – which includes A‑League Men club Newcastle – will advance to the knockout rounds. The quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and final will be played on a centralised basis in Saudi Arabia in April and May. (AAP)
Frequently asked questions
Why was the Al‑Nassr vs Al‑Wasl match postponed?
The match was postponed after Al‑Wasl reported logistical problems with available flights to Riyadh.
What was the result of Al‑Ain's match against Tractor FC?
Al‑Ain defeated Tractor FC 2‑1.
How many points did Al‑Ain earn in their first three matches?
Al‑Ain earned nine points in their first three matches.