Ronaldo takes final shot at Asian glory as Saudi clubs dominate

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Riyadh: Cristiano Ronaldo is hoping to win another major Asian club title as Saudi Arabia's top teams prepare to dominate the continental competition.

The 41 years old Portugal forward is still the biggest name in the AFC Champions League Elite, with his Al-Nassr club hoping to fight for the trophy after falling short in their previous continental campaign.

Al-Nassr's bid comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly dominant in Asian football. In recent years, the kingdom's clubs have made significant investments in international talent, strengthening their teams with some of the biggest names in world football.

Al-Ahli are the defending AFC Champions League Elite champions, and Al-Hilal have established themselves as one of Asia's most formidable teams. Their accomplishment demonstrates Saudi clubs' growing significance on the continental level.

Ronaldo sees the tournament as another opportunity to add an Asian continental crown to a career that already includes significant titles in England, Spain, Italy, and Portugal. The Portuguese star joined Al-Nassr in late 2022 and has since played a key role for the Saudi club.

With Ronaldo entering the final stages of his career, the following season could be one of his last chances to win the AFC Champions League Elite trophy.

Saudi clubs, meanwhile, will begin the league as favourites, thanks to their financial power and depth of international players, making them Asia's teams to beat.