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0(Football results) - Al-Nassr did not allow any upsets in the Saudi King's Cup, as they joined the major teams in advancing to the Round of 16.
The Riyadh-based team defeated Al-Diriyah 4-1 at Al-Awwal Park on Tuesday evening to book their place in the next round.
Al-Diriyah made an impressive start. In the 2nd minute, Oscar Rodriguez opened the scoring after taking advantage of a low cross and finishing past Brazilian goalkeeper Bento.
However, Al-Nassr quickly responded with force. Portuguese star Joao Felix became the standout figure on the pitch, contributing to the equalizer in the 11th minute. From a well-organized move, French defender Mohamed Simakan executed a clever backheel from a cross to bring the match back to level terms.
Felix continued to shine in the 36th minute, scoring to put Al-Nassr ahead. Kingsley Coman sprinted down the right flank before delivering a low pass that allowed the Portuguese striker to finish past goalkeeper Nicola Vasilj.
Just a minute later, Abdullah Al-Hamdan made it 3-1 for the home side. The Saudi striker received a clever through ball from Sadio Mane, got past Vasilj, and easily slotted the ball into the net.
In the 68th minute, Felix completed his brace and sealed the 4-1 victory for Al-Nassr. Right-back Nawaf Boushal provided an accurate cross for the former Benfica and Chelsea player to finish decisively, leaving goalkeeper Vasilj with no chance to save.
This victory helped Al-Nassr secure a place in the Round of 16 of the Saudi King's Cup, while also joining the group of major clubs that have avoided shocks in the tournament, including Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Qadsiah.
The team nicknamed "Al-Alami" is aiming to conquer the Saudi King's Cup for the first time in 36 years. Al-Nassr last lifted this trophy in 1990.