The AFC Champions League is heading into its thrilling final knockout stages, with Saudi Arabia playing host to the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final, all taking place in Jeddah from April 25 to May 3. This year's competition has been rebranded as the AFC Champions League Elite, bringing new excitement as Saudi clubs, strengthened by high-profile European players, aim for dominance.

Among the leading contenders for the title are three Saudi clubs: Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli. These teams have invested heavily in star players, and their formidable squads have made them top favorites to win Asia’s premier club competition.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Pursuit of the AFC Champions League

Al Nassr, spearheaded by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, is one of the top teams in the running. Despite being 40 years old, Ronaldo continues to perform at an elite level, having scored seven goals in this season’s tournament. The Portuguese forward is eager to secure his first AFC Champions League title before he retires from club football.

Under the guidance of coach Stefano Pioli, Al Nassr has been preparing for a strong campaign, particularly after a disappointing quarter-final exit in the previous season. Pioli remains confident in his squad's potential, despite some results not fully reflecting their hard work.

In the quarter-finals, Al Nassr will face Japan’s Yokohama F-Marinos, who were last year’s finalists. However, Yokohama is currently in turmoil after the dismissal of manager Steve Holland, following a poor run in the J.League. Al Nassr will look to capitalize on Yokohama’s struggles as they aim for a spot in the semi-finals.

Al Hilal’s Ambitious Title Chase

Al Hilal, the most successful club in AFC Champions League history, is vying for their fifth title, which would extend their record. The Riyadh club’s squad is packed with talent, including Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, Portuguese internationals Joao Cancelo and Ruben Neves, and other top-tier players. Even without Neymar, who returned to Santos, Al Hilal remains one of the strongest teams in the competition.

In the quarter-finals, Al Hilal will face South Korean debutants Gwangju. While Gwangju’s coach, Jang Ki-bong, has acknowledged the challenge of facing one of Asia’s top clubs, he is confident that his side will put up a fight. Al Hilal’s wealth of experience and star players make them the favorites, though Gwangju’s fighting spirit could make the match more interesting.

Al Ahli’s Strong Ambitions

Al Ahli, with a squad featuring world-class players like Ivan Toney, Roberto Firmino, and Riyad Mahrez, is another strong contender for the title. The Jeddah-based club will meet Thailand’s Buriram United in the quarter-finals. A win could set up an exciting all-Saudi semi-final against Al Hilal, intensifying the stakes for the Saudi clubs.

Mahrez has expressed confidence in his team's ability, emphasizing the advantage of playing the final in Jeddah. Al Ahli’s well-rounded squad and home-field advantage make them one of the most dangerous teams in the competition.

The Road to Glory in Jeddah

The three Saudi clubs have dominated the West Zone group stages, with Al Hilal and Al Ahli finishing unbeaten. Al Nassr, although not perfect, also secured a strong position to move forward.

The final stages of the tournament will culminate at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, a venue with a 62,000-capacity, and it promises to be an unforgettable conclusion to this year’s competition. The Saudi clubs' combination of financial strength, home advantage, and world-class talent has made them the teams to watch.

With the trophy within reach, it remains to be seen whether Al Nassr, Al Hilal, or Al Ahli can bring the AFC Champions League title home to Saudi Arabia once again. The competition is bound to be fierce, and Jeddah is ready to witness a dramatic and historic finish.