Ronaldo Inspires Dramatic Fightback Win for Al Nassr Against Istiqlol in Asian Champions League

• Al-Nassr staged a dramatic comeback to keep their winning streak intact
• Cristiano Ronaldo and Anderson Talisca were on target for Riyadh giants
• The win cemented Al-Nassr's place in their AFC Champions League group

Cristiano Ronaldo spearheaded Al-Nassr's remarkable comeback triumph against Istiqlol Dushanbe in their second AFC Champions League group match on Monday, October 2.

Ronaldo, who has been in exceptional form since the beginning of the season, finally opened his account in Asia's premier club competition.

Anderson Talisca then completed the comeback with a brace at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh.

As anticipated, the Knights of Najd launched into the game with intensity, dominating possession and launching a barrage of attacks.

Despite their relentless efforts, the home team was frustrated by the exceptional goalkeeping of Rustam Yatimov, who made near-superhuman saves.

In addition to the keeper's heroics, Luis Castro's squad was also foiled by a touch of misfortune, as a couple of their attempts narrowly missed the target, with some hitting the post.

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Unfortunately, their misery was compounded just before half-time when Ivorian forward, Senin Sebai scored against the run of play for Istiqlol on the counter-attack.

After the break, Al-Nassr returned with renewed vigour and substitute, Ayman Yahya injected new life into their attack.

It was no surprise when Ronaldo, the team's talisman, finally scored in the tournament, finding the net from a tight angle in the 66th minute, Goal Gazette reports.

According to Mykhel, Anderson Talisca, Ronaldo's partner-in-crime, continued his impressive goal-scoring form by heading home a cross from Yahya in the 72nd minute to complete the comeback.

Five minutes later, the Brazilian added another goal to seal consecutive victories in the AFC Champions League for Al-Nassr. This win solidified their position at the top of Group E with six points.

Istiqlol defender admits fear of Ronaldo, Mane

Sports Brief previously reported on Istiqlol Dushanbe's standout player, Alisher Dzhalilov admitting to concerns in the lead-up to their AFC Champions League match against Al-Nassr at Al-Awwal Park.

The Tajik midfielder, in anticipation of their clash in Asia's premier club competition, voiced his apprehension about his team having to confront the formidable duo of Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo.