RIYADH — Al Qadsiah continued their outstanding form in the Saudi Pro League under Northern Irish coach Brendan Rodgers, claiming a crucial 2-1 victory over Al Nassr, who have now taken just one point from their last three league matches. Despite a strong first-half display from Al Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aqidi, the hosts were undone after the break by two costly defensive moments that allowed Al Qadsiah to seize control of the contest. The breakthrough came in the 51st minute following a major error from Al Aqidi, who rushed out of his penalty area in an attempt to stop a swift counterattack. His attempted clearance struck the head of Julián Quiñones, who gratefully accepted the gift and guided the ball into an empty net. Al Qadsiah doubled their advantage in the 66th minute after Quiñones pressed aggressively and won possession from Ayman Yahya near the edge of the area. The resulting counterattack was finished emphatically by Nahitan Nández, whose powerful strike left Al Aqidi with no chance. Earlier in the match, Al Qadsiah were forced into a change when goalkeeper Koen Casteels was stretchered off following a heavy collision, but the visitors maintained their composure despite the setback. Al Nassr, coached by Jorge Jesus, attempted a late comeback and were handed a lifeline in the 81st minute when Cristiano Ronaldo converted from the penalty spot. However, the hosts were unable to complete the turnaround as Al Qadsiah defended resolutely to secure a famous win. The defeat compounds a difficult spell for Al Nassr, who had opened the season with a record 10 consecutive wins before drawing 2-2 with Al Ettifaq and losing 3-2 to Al Ahli Saudi FC in the previous round. Al Nassr remain second on 31 points, three ahead of Al Taawoun, who face Al Shabab on Friday, while leaders Al Hilal sit top with 35 points. Al Qadsiah climbed to fourth place on 27 points, further underlining their growing momentum this season. Elsewhere, Al Ettifaq edged a thrilling 4-3 win over Al Najmah, lifting the side coached by Saad Al Shehri to 22 points and seventh place, while Al Najmah remain bottom with two points.
