Wed Apr 30 16:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Al Nassr Favored to Reach AFC Champions League Final, but Kawasaki Frontale Vows Upset
**JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia** – Al Nassr, boasting a star-studded roster including Cristiano Ronaldo and valued at an estimated US$200 million, are overwhelming favorites to advance to the AFC Champions League Elite final. Their comfortable quarterfinal victory over Yokohama F. Marinos, coupled with Kawasaki Frontale’s grueling extra-time match in the previous round, has further cemented their position.
However, Kawasaki Frontale, the lone remaining East Asian team in the semifinals, refuse to be intimidated. While acknowledging Al Nassr’s considerable strength and the dominance of Saudi Arabian clubs in this year’s tournament (three of the four semifinalists), Kawasaki coach Shigetoshi Hasebe emphasized his team’s focus on the game itself, rather than the pressure of representing the entire East Asian region. He aims to defy expectations and pull off an upset.
Al Nassr coach Stefano Pioli, meanwhile, expressed confidence in his team’s fitness and ability to handle the pressure. He highlighted the growing strength of the Saudi Pro League, reflected in the success of Saudi clubs in the tournament. The match, taking place at the King Abdullah Sports City on Wednesday, marks Al Nassr’s third semifinal appearance in five years, with previous attempts ending in defeat. This year, however, the team is determined to break their continental hoodoo and reach their first final since 1995. Kawasaki Frontale, despite their impressive domestic record, are making their first-ever appearance in the AFC Champions League Elite semifinals. The match promises a compelling clash between financial might and collective team spirit.
First Piper 