Al Nassr vs Istiklol Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | AFC Champions League Two 2025-26

The previous confrontation between these sides ended in a draw.

Al Nassr are ready to battle it out against Istiklol in what is going to be the matchweek 1 group stage fixture of the 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two. This interesting fixture will take place at the Al Awwal Park.

Cristiano Ronaldo and company were only able to qualify for the ACL Two as they finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season. Al Nassr performed decently in the AFC Champions League Elite and were able to reach the semifinals. This time around, the Saudi Pro League side are surely eyeing silverware.

The Tajik league side are doing well in their domestic league, but for their upcoming fixture, they will have to step up. FC Istiklol are going to face a tough contest. They performed decently against Al Nassr last time around, but this time it is going to be a different scenario.

Kick-off:

• Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Stadium: Al Awwal Park
• Date: Wednesday, Sept 17
• Kick-off Time: 11:45 p.m. IST/ 06:15 p.m. GMT/ 02:15 p.m. ET/ 11:15 a.m. PT
• Referee: TBD
• VAR: Not in use

Form:

Al Nassr: W-W

Istiklol: L-W-W-W-D

Players to Watch

Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)

Even though the Portuguese talisman failed to score a goal for his side in the last fixture, CR7 is going to play an important role in the attacking front for his side. Cristiano Ronaldo has been one of the most consistent players for Al Nassr. With the addition of new players to the squad, like Joao Felix, he is going to be more dangerous for the opponents.

Manuchekhr Dzhalilov (Istiklol)

The 34-year-old is going to play an essential part in the final third for his side. Manuchekhr Dzhalilov will be looking to step up. With the help of his experience, he will also be keen on scoring a goal or two so that he can help his side stand a chance against the Saudi Pro League side.

Match Facts

• This will be the third-ever meeting between these clubs.
• Al Nassr are unbeaten against Istiklol.
• Jorge Jesus-men are on a two-match winning streak.

Al Nassr vs Istiklol: Betting Tips and Odds

• Al Nassr to win
• Cristiano Ronaldo to score
• Goals over 3.5

Injury and Team News

Al Nassr will be without the services of Nawaf Alaqidi as he is injured.

FC Istiklol will be ready with all their players eager to be in action.

Head-to-Head

Total matches: 2

Al Nassr won: 1

Istiklol won: 0

Draws: 1

Predicted Lineups

Al Nassr predicted lineup (4-4-1-1)

Al Najjar (GK); Boushal, Simakan, Martínez, Yahya; Coman, Brozovic, Gabriel, Mané; Félix; Ronaldo

Istiklol predicted lineup (5-4-1)

Khasanov (GK); Nasrullozoda, Suslov, Turkaj, Chobanov, Islomov; Kamolov, Okoro, Pandzhshanbe, Alisher Dzhalilov; Manuchekhr Dzhalilov

Match Prediction

These clubs will be pushing for a win in their opening Asian Champions League game. The favourites, Al Nassr, are likely to emerge victorious in their upcoming AFC Champions League Two match against Istiklol.

Prediction: Al Nassr 3-1 Istiklol

Telecast Details

India: FanCode

Saudi Arabia: beIN Sports

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