The 2025-26 AFC Champions League Two has delivered plenty of drama in its group stage, but few stories have been as compelling as the dominant campaigns of Al-Nassr and Al-Wasl. Both clubs topped their respective groups in commanding fashion, and the tournament bracket has placed them on a collision course that could produce one of the most anticipated quarter-final clashes in the competition’s history.
Al-Nassr’s Perfect Record
Al-Nassr’s passage through Group D was nothing short of ruthless. Jorge Jesus’ side won all six of their matches, scoring 22 goals and conceding just two — a goal difference of +20 that stands as the best in the entire tournament. The Saudi giants dispatched Istiklol 5-0 and 4-0 in both meetings, beat Al-Zawraa 2-0 away before hammering them 5-1 at home, and saw off FC Goa 2-1 and 4-0.
The star power at Al-Nassr’s disposal has been evident throughout. João Félix contributed three goals including a crucial penalty, Sadio Mané netted twice, and Kingsley Coman marked his presence with a goal on his Asian debut. Saudi talents shone too — Abdulrahman Ghareeb was a revelation with three goals, while Mohammed Maran and Aiman Yahya added important contributions.
Al-Wasl’s Unbeaten March
Al-Wasl’s Group A campaign was equally impressive, albeit in a different style. The Emirati side went unbeaten with four wins and two draws, collecting 14 points. Their statement moment came on Matchday 1, when they demolished Esteghlal 7-1 in a breathtaking performance at home that announced their intentions to the rest of Asia.
Brazilian striker Fábio Lima has been the standout performer, contributing goals in multiple matches, while Adryelson, Nicolás Giménez, and Matheus Saldanha have provided quality throughout the squad. Al-Wasl’s ability to grind out results — including crucial away wins at Al-Wehdat and Al-Muharraq — showcases a team built for knockout football.
The Road to a Potential Quarter-Final Showdown
The Round of 16 draw has set up seemingly favorable ties for both clubs. Al-Nassr face Arkadag of Turkmenistan across two legs on February 11 and 18, while Al-Wasl take on Iraq’s Al-Zawraa on February 10 and 17. Given the form of both teams, few would bet against them advancing to the quarter-finals, where the bracket dictates they would meet.
The two sides are no strangers to each other on the continental stage. In the 2024-25 AFC Champions League Elite, Al-Nassr handed Al-Wasl a comprehensive 4-0 defeat on Matchday 7 — a result that still lingers in the memory.
What’s at Stake
For Al-Nassr, competing in Asia’s second-tier club competition after finishing third in the Saudi Pro League last season represents both a reality check and an opportunity. Winning the AFC Champions League Two would secure a direct return to the Champions League Elite — a powerful incentive for a squad packed with world-class talent.
Al-Wasl, meanwhile, are chasing a continental trophy that would mark a historic achievement for the Dubai-based club. Their group stage form suggests they have the quality and resilience to go deep in this tournament.
As the knockout stage kicks off this February, all eyes in Asian football will be watching whether these two powerhouses can navigate their way to what promises to be a blockbuster quarter-final encounter. The final is scheduled for May 17, 2026, and both clubs harbor genuine ambitions of lifting the trophy.
