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Postecoglou Loses First Match as Al‑Nassr Fall 2-1 to Benfica B

The behind‑closed‑doors defeat has prompted added training and will shape how the coach integrates players while Cristiano Ronaldo recovers from the World Cup.

Overview

  • Al‑Nassr were beaten 2-1 by Benfica B in a 60-minute friendly in Lisbon that served as Ange Postecoglou’s first match in charge on Thursday.
  • Midfielder Abdulmalik Al‑Jaber gave Al‑Nassr an early lead but Benfica B scored twice to overturn the game in the unusual two‑30‑minute format.
  • Regional reports say Postecoglou ordered an extra training session immediately after the match to accelerate tactical work and address shortcomings.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo did not play while resting after Portugal’s World Cup run, and reports indicate he is expected to rejoin training next week with an Aug. 4 friendly against Almería the likeliest chance for his preseason debut if his fitness permits.
  • Al‑Nassr remain in Europe for three more scheduled friendlies — Mérida on July 28, Estrela Amadora on Aug. 1 and Almería on Aug. 4 — which the coaching staff will use to test tactics and manage player workloads before the season.