Saudi Dominance in the AFC Asian Champions League Quarter-Finals

The AFC Asian Champions League quarter-finals are here, and the Roshn Saudi League is dominating the West Asian side. Three out of the four remaining clubs hail from the Saudi Arabian top-flight, showcasing the Kingdom’s influence in Asia’s premier club competition.

First up, Al Ain will face Al Nassr on March 4 and 11. Al Nassr, currently sitting second in the RSL, defeated Al Fayha in the last 16 with a 3-0 aggregate win. Cristiano Ronaldo, returning from suspension, played a pivotal role in securing their quarter-final spot. Al Ain, on the other hand, advanced by beating Nasaf Qarshi 2-1 on aggregate in a dramatic fashion, with Soufiane Rahimi scoring a late winner.

Then, Al Hilal will clash with Al Ittihad on March 5 and 12 in an all-RSL showdown. Al Hilal, the reigning champions, comfortably progressed to the quarter-finals by defeating Sepahan 6-2 on aggregate, with Aleksandar Mitrovic shining. Al Ittihad, the league leaders, overcame Navbahor in the last 16 to set up this intriguing encounter.

Both Al Hilal and Al Ittihad remain unbeaten in the Champions League this season, setting the stage for a compelling battle. Al Hilal’s dominance in both the RSL and the continental competition contrasts with Al Ittihad’s resurgence in the Champions League, where they are aiming to replicate their past success from the mid-2000s.

As the AFC Asian Champions League quarter-finals unfold, the spotlight is firmly on the Saudi Arabian representatives, Al Nassr, Al Ain, Al Hilal, and Al Ittihad. With the Kingdom’s clubs making their mark on the competition, football fans can expect thrilling encounters as the race for continental glory intensifies.

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Zora Əhmədov

Zora Əhmədov, our dedicated statistician and lover of small leagues, is the analytical mind behind Asia.futbol's in-depth statistical analyses. Hailing from Azerbaijan, Zora's expertise lies in uncovering the hidden gems and untold stories within the lesser-known football leagues across Asia. With a sharp focus on numbers and an encyclopedic knowledge of the game, Zora's articles provide readers with a fresh perspective on the statistical side of Asian football.

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