Mon Dec 02 21:28:40 UTC 2024: ## Al-Nassr’s Unbeaten Streak Ends in AFC Champions League Thriller
**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia** – Al-Nassr’s unbeaten run in the AFC Champions League Elite was brought to an end by a last-minute penalty, as Al-Sadd secured a thrilling 2-1 victory. Despite the loss, Al-Nassr, missing rested star Cristiano Ronaldo, had already secured their place in the round of 16 and remain in third place in their group.
Al-Nassr had several chances in the first half, with Talisca hitting the post and missing a close-range opportunity after a Sadio Mané assist. Al-Sadd also had a chance to take the lead, but Cristo Gonzalez’s shot was saved. Mané also missed a header and a shot from Angelo narrowly missed the target.
Al-Sadd broke the deadlock eight minutes into the second half when Akram Afif beat the Al-Nassr keeper. Al-Nassr responded with several chances, with Mané hitting the post, before Romain Saiss scored what appeared to be an own goal to level the game. However, a penalty conceded by Mohammed Al-Fatil in the 99th minute allowed Adam Ounas to secure the win for Al-Sadd, sending them through to the next round.
**Al-Ahli’s dramatic draw**
Elsewhere, group leaders Al-Ahli battled to a 2-2 draw against Esteghlal, with two penalties from Ivan Toney cancelling out goals from Raphael Silva and Mohammad Hossein Eslami. Eslami’s red card late in the game hampered Esteghlal’s hopes of victory.
## Saudi Pro League’s Global Ambitions Highlighted at World Football Summit
**Riyadh, Saudi Arabia** – The World Football Summit in Riyadh showcased the Saudi Pro League’s rapid growth and ambitious vision for the future of football in the Kingdom. SPL CEO Omar Mugharbe emphasized the league’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, highlighting the improvements in the standard of football and the creation of a more welcoming environment for fans and international stakeholders. He noted the increasing global interest in the league, attracting significant media attention.
Monika Staab, women’s football technical director for the South Asian Football Federation, praised the remarkable progress of women’s football in Saudi Arabia, noting its rapid advancement compared to other countries. Al-Hilal head coach Jose Herrera highlighted the attractive investment opportunities in the growing Saudi league.
The summit also discussed the Kingdom’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, which has received the highest technical rating ever awarded. The event brought together prominent figures from the football world, including representatives from FIFA, UEFA, and leading clubs.
## Emirates Dubai 7s Crowns Fiji and Australia
**Dubai, UAE** – The Emirates Dubai 7s concluded with victories for Fiji’s men’s and Australia’s women’s teams. Fiji defeated Spain 19-5 to claim their first HSBC SVNS tournament win since 2022, while Australia secured a fifth consecutive Dubai women’s title, beating New Zealand in a close final. The event also featured a range of sports and entertainment, attracting a record number of participants.
## Uihlein Takes International Series Lead Ahead of Saudi Finale
**Doha, Qatar** – Peter Uihlein secured a commanding victory at the International Series Qatar, propelling him to the top of the International Series Rankings. The win sets up a thrilling climax to the season at the PIF Saudi International, where a substantial points haul is up for grabs. Several players remain in contention for the top spot and a place on the LIV Golf League roster.
## Dubai Basketball Star Praises UAE on National Day
**Dubai, UAE** – Dubai Basketball player Davis Bertans expressed his strong admiration for the UAE, highlighting its safety, friendly people, and diverse culinary scene. Bertans, a former NBA player, is enjoying his first Eid Al-Etihad celebrations since moving to Dubai earlier this year and is eager to inspire the next generation of basketball players in the country. He aims to lead Dubai Basketball to victory in the ABA League Championship.
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