Riyadh: Jhon Duran struck twice and Cristiano Ronaldo once as Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr Club defeated Iran’s Esteghlal FC 3-0 in the second leg of their AFC Champions League Elite 2024/25 Round of 16 tie at the King Saud University Stadium on Monday.

According to Qatar News Agency, Ronaldo returned to the starting lineup after missing last week’s goalless first leg draw in Tehran, with Duran and Sadio Mane providing support from the flanks. Esteghlal had the first shot on target when Mehran Ahmadi’s early effort was comfortably gathered by Al Nassr keeper Bento.

Al Nassr gradually took control, targeting Ronaldo with crosses into the box. The breakthrough came in the ninth minute when Duran capitalized on Seyed Hosseini’s careless pass, lobbing the ball over Esteghlal’s keeper. Ronaldo’s persistence paid off with a penalty conversion after Mane was fouled in the box.

Despite chances to extend their lead, including a misdirected header from Mohammed Al Fatil and a side netting shot by Ronaldo, Al Nassr went into halftime with a comfortable advantage. Esteghlal’s situation worsened after Mehran Ahmadi received a second yellow card and was sent off.

Esteghlal introduced former Al Nassr midfielder Jaloliddin Masharipov after the break, but Al Nassr continued to dominate. Hosseini made crucial saves, denying both Brozovic and Ronaldo. However, Duran secured the victory in the 84th minute, striking home Angelo’s pass to settle the tie and advance to the quarterfinals.