On September 30, 2024, Sadio Mané distinguished himself during Al-Nassr’s victory against Al Rayyan (2-1) as part of the second day of the group stage of the Asian Champions League. The Saudi club was able to count on the experience and talent of the Senegalese striker to take the advantage in a decisive meeting.
As the first half drew to a close, Mané made the difference with a crucial goal. On a precise cross from Sultan Al-Ghannam, the former Liverpool and Bayern Munich player adjusted his head perfectly to deceive the opposing goalkeeper in the 45th minute (+1). This goal, scored in stoppage time in the first period, allowed Al-Nassr to return to the locker room with a significant psychological advantage.
Sadio Mane continues his brilliant start to the season 💪#ACLElite | #NSRvRYN pic.twitter.com/8UL6UjtnaY
— #ACLElite | #ACLTwo (@TheAFCCL) September 30, 2024
Saudi domination was confirmed in the second half. In the 76th minute, Cristiano Ronaldo, served by Abdulrahman Ghareeb, doubled the lead, increasing the pressure on the Al Rayyan team. The Qatari club did not give up, however, and Roger Guedes gave his team hope by reducing the gap in the 87th minute, after a well-placed pass from Achraf Bencharki.
The end of the match was marked by high intensity, with Al Rayyan increasing their attacks to try to equalize. However, despite this late pressure and several warnings handed out, Al-Nassr’s defense held firm until the final whistle, securing a valuable victory for the Saudi club.
With this performance, Sadio Mané once again confirms his importance within the Al-Nassr squad, helping to place his team in a favorable position in this group phase.
