Ahead of a climactic Saudi Pro League match against Al Taawoun, Riyadh side Al Nassr has announced its starting lineup.
With so much anticipatory pressure on this match, the supporters will eagerly observe how the team plays with the lineup as they fight for a good ending to the season on a streak.
Here’s a summary of the selected starting eleven and what each line contributes to the pitch.
Between the sticks, manager Luís Castro has made the perpetually dependable Bento his number one choice. His quick reflexes and steady showings have been invaluable for Al Nassr all season long.
The back four consists of Boushal, Lajami, Al Fatil, and Sultan. Lajami and Al Fatil bring experience and solidity in the middle defense, and Boushal and Sultan provide width and overlapping cover along the wings.
This backline shape represents a balanced approach, with the capacity to absorb pressure, but allows full-backs to contribute to attack.
The midfield three of Brozovic, Al Sulaiheem, and Otavio provides a mix of tactical nous and creative impetus. Brozovic, whose vision and possession-holding are key to his game, will play in a deep-lying role, controlling the tempo of the game from deep midfield.
Al Sulaiheem provides energy and transition drive, the team’s engine, while Otavio unlocks Al Taawoun’s defense with incisive passing and link-up football. This combination provides equal defensive cover and attacking initiative.
However, the lineup has caused massive backlash from Cristiano Ronaldo‘s fans. One user wrote on X: “This is so dumb. Ronaldo is 3 goals away from 100 goals for Al nassr why would he not play these last few matches?”
Attack Powered by Mane, Duran, and Ayman
At the front, the attack is led by a vibrant trio: Sadio Mane, Duran, and Ayman. The addition of Mane brings world-class experience and goal-scoring credentials. He has the pace and cutting inside skills to test Al Taawoun’s defense.
Duran, perhaps playing as the lone striker, is a physical presence and an aerial threat, while Ayman, one of the young new stars, brings agility and creativity on the other side. How well these two work together will determine their ability to break down the opposition and convert chances.
With this starting eleven, Al Nassr seems to be setting up to use a dynamic 4-3-3 formation so they can dominate possession and counter rapidly.
The synergy between experienced internationals and developing local stars indicates the club’s tactical strategy for both short-term accomplishment and long-term progress.