Al Nassr FC 2–0 Merida AD | International Club Friendly | 29 July 2026

Al Nassr FC continued their pre-season preparations with a comfortable 2–0 victory over Merida AD of Spain in an international club friendly played at the Al Nassr Club Stadium in Riyadh. The Saudi Pro League giants controlled the match from start to finish, easing to a win that will build confidence ahead of the upcoming domestic campaign.

Match Summary

The first goal came in the 23rd minute. Al Nassr's midfield orchestrator, Anderson Talisca, played a clever one-two with winger Sadio Mané before slotting past the Merida goalkeeper. The goal was well-worked and demonstrated the attacking chemistry that manager Luis Castro is building. The second goal arrived just before half-time, with Mané himself getting on the scoresheet, pouncing on a rebound after a powerful shot from Cristiano Ronaldo was initially saved.

Second-Half Control

Al Nassr dominated possession in the second half but took their foot off the gas, perhaps mindful of avoiding injuries in a pre-season fixture. Merida AD, a Segunda División side, rarely threatened the home goal, with Al Nassr goalkeeper Raghed Al-Najjar enjoying a quiet evening. The Saudi side continued to move the ball well, with Ronaldo and Mané both substituted in the 60th minute to preserve fitness.

Key Talking Points

• Chemistry: The attacking trio of Ronaldo, Mané, and Talisca looked sharp and creative.
• Defensive Solidity: Al Nassr kept a clean sheet, with centre-back Aymeric Laporte commanding at the back.
• Pre-Season Progress: The result adds to a positive run of friendlies for the Saudi club.

Player Ratings

• Cristiano Ronaldo: 7/10 – Active, unlucky not to score, but provided the assist for the second goal.
• Sadio Mané: 8/10 – Constant threat, deserved his goal.
• Anderson Talisca: 8/10 – Elegant on the ball, scored a fine opener.

Looking Ahead

Al Nassr's pre-season schedule continues as they fine-tune for the Saudi Pro League title challenge. Merida AD will take positives from the workout, having faced a top-tier opponent in a friendly that allowed them to test their squad depth. For Al Nassr fans, the performance offered more evidence that the team is gelling well under their experienced coach.