Kawasaki Frontale pulled off a dramatic 3-2 upset over Al Nassr in Wednesday's AFC Champions League Elite semifinal at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. It’s the first time the Japanese side will compete for the continental crown.
The game exploded into life when Tatsuya Ito volleyed home in the 10th minute after Al Nassr failed to clear a header. Sadio Mané leveled eight minutes later with a powerful, deflected shot that beat Kawasaki’s goalkeeper Louis Yamaguchi.
Kawasaki regained the lead in the 41st minute after Bento denied Ito’s initial effort, only for Yuto Ozeki to pounce on the rebound and convert.
The Japanese side put the result beyond doubt in the 76th minute when Erison slalomed past defenders on the left wing and set up Akihiro Ienaga for a simple tap-in, making it 3-1.
A late strike by Ayman Yahya in the 87th minute gave Al Nassr hope, but goalkeeper Yamaguchi’s heroics held firm. Cristiano Ronaldo, 40, came close himself—his header hit the bar, and a stoppage-time free kick was blocked.
On Saturday, Kawasaki will face Al Ahli, who beat Al Hilal 3-1, for their maiden AFC Champions League Elite trophy. Al Nassr, meanwhile, remain focused on the Saudi Pro League, where they sit third with five matches to go.
Reference(s):
Kawasaki eliminate Al Nassr to reach AFC Champions League Elite final
cgtn.com
