Al Qadsiah Stun Al Nassr 3-1, Ending 16-Match Winning Streak in Saudi Pro League

Key facts

• Al Qadsiah defeated Al Nassr 3-1 on Sunday in Dammam.
• Al Nassr’s 16-match winning streak in the Roshn Saudi League ended.
• Al Qadsiah remain unbeaten at home this season.
• Mohammed Abu Al Shamat opened the scoring in the 24th minute.
• João Félix equalized for Al Nassr just before halftime.
• Musab Al Juwayr restored Al Qadsiah’s lead in the 55th minute.
• Julián Quiñones sealed the win in the 78th minute.
• Al Nassr lead the league with 79 points; Al Hilal are second with 74 and a game in hand.

A Shock in Dammam

Al Qadsiah delivered a seismic blow to Al Nassr’s title ambitions on Sunday, winning 3-1 at home and snapping the league leaders’ 16-match winning streak. The result leaves Al Nassr atop the Roshn Saudi League with 79 points from 31 matches, but second-placed Al Hilal now trail by just five points with a game in hand. Al Qadsiah, who have not lost at home all season, climbed to fourth place with 68 points, one point behind Al Ahli. The victory not only reshapes the title race but also strengthens their push for a top-three finish.

First-Half Exchange Sets the Stage

The hosts struck first in the 24th minute when Mohammed Abu Al Shamat arrived at the back post to convert a close-range finish after a dangerous delivery caused chaos inside the six-yard box. Al Nassr responded with greater urgency, and Cristiano Ronaldo came closest to equalizing when he struck the crossbar from a tight angle. Just before halftime, the visitors found their breakthrough. Marcelo Brozovic set up João Félix on a swift counter-attack, and Félix guided a precise effort into the top corner to level the match at 1-1.

Second-Half Dominance by Al Qadsiah

Al Qadsiah regained the initiative early in the second half, showing greater intent. Their pressure paid off in the 55th minute when Julián Quiñones teed up Musab Al Juwayr, who finished confidently from inside the box to restore the lead. Al Nassr struggled to build momentum; despite flashes from Félix and Ronaldo, their attacking play lacked quality, with several efforts blocked or drifting off target. As the game opened up in the closing stages, Al Qadsiah capitalised to put the result beyond doubt. Quiñones, already influential as a provider, turned scorer with a composed finish from the centre of the box in the 78th minute, making it 3-1. From that point, the outcome was effectively settled. Al Nassr continued to push, but their efforts were largely speculative, with Ronaldo’s late long-range attempt drifting wide as frustration grew.

Title Race Tightens

Al Nassr remain top with 79 points, but Al Hilal’s game in hand means the gap could shrink to just two points. The defeat ends a remarkable 16-match winning run that had put Al Nassr in firm control of the league. Al Qadsiah, meanwhile, have strengthened their case for a top-three finish, sitting one point behind Al Ahli with seven matches remaining. The result has drawn sharp criticism in international media, with some outlets highlighting Al Nassr’s inability to respond after taking the lead and Ronaldo’s lack of impact. The Portuguese star sent a decisive message to fans after the loss, though its content was not disclosed.

What Comes Next

Al Nassr face Al Shabab in their next league fixture, with seven players reportedly threatened with absence due to disciplinary or injury concerns. Coach Luís Castro must quickly regroup his side to prevent further slippage. Al Qadsiah, buoyed by this statement win, will look to build momentum as they chase a top-three finish. The Saudi Pro League title race now hangs in the balance. Al Hilal, with their game in hand, have a golden opportunity to close the gap. For Al Nassr, the margin for error has evaporated.

The bottom line

• Al Qadsiah’s 3-1 win ends Al Nassr’s 16-match winning streak and tightens the title race.
• Al Nassr lead by five points but Al Hilal have a game in hand.
• Julián Quiñones provided a goal and an assist in a standout performance.
• Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score and had limited impact on the match.
• Al Qadsiah remain unbeaten at home this season and are pushing for a top-three finish.
• Al Nassr’s next match against Al Shabab is critical to maintaining their lead.