Stormy Night for Pioli as Al Nassr Crash Out of AFC Champions League Elite

World 30 April 2025 at 16:18

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Stefano Pioli endured stormy press conference after Al Nassr's shock 3 - 2 defeat to Kawasaki Frontale which knocked the Saudi side out of the AFC Champions League Elite at the semifinal stage.

Despite taking 1st half lead, Al Nassr were overwhelmed in the second half by the Japanese club who secured dramatic comeback win and booked spot in the final against Al Ahly on 3 May.

Brutal Questions Leave Pioli Silent

Following the loss, Pioli faced barrage of harsh questions from the media. One journalist even remarked: “If I'd the money, I’d pay Al Nassr to fire you” .. while another bluntly shouted: “To the airport, Pioli, to the airport”.

Pioli Shoulders the Blame

The Italian manager, however didn't shy away from responsibility. Speaking candidly, he said:

“I take full responsibility for the loss We were poor in duels, slow in transitions and made too many mistakes. The real surprise wasn’t Kawasaki’s quality but our performance”

On his decision to throw on 6 attacking wingers in the 2nd half, Pioli explained:

“We'd no other option. We took risk trying to get back into the match but failed”.

Season Goals in Doubt

Since taking over at Al Nassr, Pioli's been under pressure to deliver continental success. With that ambition now crushed, he stressed the need to refocus:

“We’ve been hit hard by fixture congestion. The aim now is to finish the league campaign in the best way possible”.

Message to the Fans

“I understand the disappointment and the criticism But the players didn’t give up. The defeat hurts us all and we’ll reflect at the end of the season”.