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Al-Nassr v Al-Qadsiah: Saudi Pro LeagueGetty Images Sport

'Magic tricks' - Ex-Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang aims dig at Al-Nassr after Saudi Pro League hand Cristiano Ronaldo's side golden chance to qualify for AFC Champions League Elite

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  • Al-Nassr handed automatic win in SPL
  • Reignite hopes of qualifying for ACL Elite
  • Aubameyang aims dig at the Al-Nassr ruling
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  • Rafi Al Ruwaili

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    Two weeks ago, Al-Nassr were mathematically ruled out of the race to achieve qualification to the AFC Champions League Elite after their 1-1 draw with Al-Taawoun, as second-placed Al-Hilal gained a seven-point lead with two games left. However, Cristiano Ronaldo's side were handed a lifeline by the Saudi Sports Arbitration Centre (SSC) after Al-Nassr were handed an automatic win and three points from their March loss against Al-Orouba after their goalkeeper Rafi Al-Ruwaili was deemed ineligible to play in the Saudi Pro League due to him not being a full-time professional.

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  • Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nassr 2025Getty Images

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Al-Nassr are now back in the race to achieve qualification to the AFC Champions League as they sit two points behind Al-Hilal. Faris Najd were placed fourth on the Saudi Pro League standings heading into the final matchday, however, the ruling has now bumped them above Aubameyang's Al Qadsiyah, and the former Arsenal and Barcelona star was not happy with the decision.

  • Al Wehda v Al Qadsiah - Saudi Pro LeagueGetty Images Sport

    WHAT AUBAMEYANG SAID

    On X, Aubameyang responded to a post made by the Saudi Pro League's official account, showing off the new standings after the SSC's ruling, as he wrote: "(laughing emoji) magic tricks happened yesterday night."

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  • WHAT NEXT FOR AL-NASSR?

    If Ronaldo's side manage to win their final Saudi Pro League clash of the season against Al-Fateh and Al-Hilal lose to Aubameyang's Al Qadsiyah, Al-Nassr will successfully qualify for the AFC Champions League.

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