Dubai [UAE], April 23 : Kingsley Coman produced a scintillating hat-trick as Al-Nassr stormed into the AFC Champions League Two final with a commanding 5-1 victory over Al-Ahli SC on Wednesday.
Despite a strong start from the visitors, Al-Nassr's attacking quality proved overwhelming as they recovered from an early setback to seal a comprehensive win in front of their home fans in Riyadh.
Al-Ahli had the perfect chance to take the lead inside seven minutes, but Julian Draxler saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Bento Krepski. The Qatari side did not have to wait long to open the scoring, however, as Sekou Yansane curled a low effort into the far corner to make it 1-0.
Al-Nassr responded almost immediately. Angelo Gabriel burst down the flank to set up Coman for a close-range equaliser, before getting on the scoresheet himself after combining neatly with Sadio Mane to put the hosts ahead.
Coman struck again just before half-time, capitalising on a defensive lapse to give Al-Nassr a 3-1 lead at the break and seize full control of the contest.
The French winger completed his hat-trick in the 64th minute, finishing calmly after another incisive pass from Angelo, capping a dominant individual performance.
Substitute Abdullah Al-Hamdan added a fifth goal late on to round off an emphatic victory for the Saudi Pro League leaders.
Cristiano Ronaldo featured for 78 minutes and played an influential role in Al-Nassr's attacking build-up, though he was unable to find the net. The Portuguese forward later expressed his delight on social media, praising the team's performance as they moved one step closer to silverware.
Al-Ahli were left to rue their missed opportunities, particularly the early penalty, as Al-Nassr's clinical finishing and fluid attacking play proved decisive.
With the win, Al-Nassr advance to the final, where they will face Gamba Osaka in Riyadh on May 17. Sitting atop the Saudi Pro League and brimming with confidence, the Riyadh-based club will now aim to crown an impressive season with their first major trophy since Ronaldo's arrival in 2022.
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