Al-Nassr Aims for Fourth Straight Win Against Al-Taawoun
Al-Nassr have named a heavyweight line-up for Friday night’s Roshn League clash with Al-Taawoun, as Ange Postecoglou’s side look to turn a perfect start into a statement run.
Three games, three wins, nine points. They arrive in round four flying, still riding the surge from that wild 3-2 victory over Al-Ettifaq, a match they dragged over the line despite playing most of it with 10 men.
Now comes the next examination of their title credentials.
Al-Aqidi back in goal
There is a change in goal. Nawaf Al-Aqidi returns between the posts for the first time this season, stepping in after Brazilian keeper Bento Matheus was sent off against Al-Ettifaq. It is a big stage for Al-Aqidi, but Postecoglou has turned to him to steady things at the back and protect that flawless record.
In front of him, the back four stays solid and familiar:
- Salem Al-Najdi
- Mohamed Simakan
- Abdulelah Al-Amri
- Nawaf Boushal
form the defensive line tasked with locking down an Al-Taawoun side eager to spoil the party.
Ronaldo leads fearsome front line
Up the pitch, the names speak for themselves.
Cristiano Ronaldo keeps his place in the starting XI for a second straight game. He began against Al-Ettifaq before being withdrawn at half-time, but here he starts again, central to Postecoglou’s attacking plan.
Either side of him, Sadio Mane and Kingsley Coman bring pace, movement and goals. It is a front three built to overwhelm, not just edge games.
Behind them, the balance comes from a midfield that can both bite and create:
- Samu Costa
- Angelo Gabriel
- Joao Felix
Felix was instrumental in the dramatic comeback against Al-Ettifaq, and his form gives Al-Nassr another cutting edge behind the headline stars.
Al-Nassr’s XI vs Al-Taawoun:
- Goalkeeper: Nawaf Al-Aqidi
- Defence: Salem Al-Najdi, Mohamed Simakan, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Nawaf Boushal
- Midfield: Samu Costa, Angelo Gabriel, Joao Felix
- Attack: Sadio Mane, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kingsley Coman
Postecoglou wants momentum, not just wins. A fourth straight victory would not only preserve the perfect start, it would send another clear message about Al-Nassr’s title intent in a league where mercy is in short supply.
