AFC Champions League Two - Slow start cost Al Nassr, says Jesus

Riyadh: Jorge Jesus admitted that Al Nassr Club paid the price for their slow start after the Saudi Arabian side fell to a 1-0 defeat against Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26™ final on Saturday.

Al Nassr had cruised into the final with a perfect record of 10 wins but came undone when least expected, with Jesus conceding that Japan’s Gamba had caught his side by surprise.

#ACLTwo | Final : Al Nassr Club (KSA) 0-1 Gamba Osaka (JPN)

“We had prepared well but they were very fast and they surprised us. For the first 30 minutes, we were not at our best but after that, we dominated.

“They only had one opportunity and they scored from it. We tried to recover and we had chances but for the first time in this season’s competition, we didn’t score,” said Jesus.

The Portuguese tactician said Al Nassr had not spared any effort in bidding to win the title.

“We prepared well, took risks as we wanted to win. (Kingsley) Koman and Angelo were not fully ready but we decided to risk playing them.

“We didn’t get what we wanted here but there is one more final for us - the Saudi Pro League title - which is very important to us. We have five days to recover and prepare and there is no time for grieving. We have to get going again.”

Al Nassr, who hold a two-point lead over Al Hilal SFC, meet Damac in their final match on Thursday, with Al Hilal to play Al Fayha.

Slow start cost Al Nassr, says Jesus

Wissing: Gamba’s determination, focus secured title

Hummet strikes as Gamba stun Al Nassr to lift trophy

Gamba’s Issam Jebali named MVP

Tampines’ Buhagiar scoops Top Goalscorer Award

Hong backs Son to lead Korea Republic challenge