Ange Postecoglou is leaning toward making two changes to Al-Nassr's line-up for Monday's trip to Pakhtakor in the fourth round of the AFC Champions League Elite, according to a press report on Sunday.
The move would come as Al-Nassr manage a busy stretch of matches and travel. The team is aiming for a second win in the competition, and the timing of the trip adds another layer of difficulty to an already congested schedule.
One of the key selection decisions centers on Samu Costa, who missed Thursday's 5-3 win over Al-Khaleej in the 12th round of the Saudi Roshn League after a booking against Al-Faisaly in the 11th round. His absence last time out gave Postecoglou one fewer option in midfield, and his status is one of the main lineup questions ahead of the visit to Uzbekistan.
Al-Nassr also have a postponed match against Al-Wasl still sitting on their calendar, which means the squad is continuing to work through a crowded run of fixtures. That makes rotation a natural consideration, especially with travel added to the usual league and continental demands.
What the lineup changes could mean
The report did not spell out the exact two changes, but the broader picture is clear enough. Postecoglou appears to be balancing the need to stay competitive in the AFC Champions League Elite with the practical reality of fatigue and fixture congestion. Against Pakhtakor, that likely means a more measured team selection than the one used in the 5-3 league win on Thursday.
For Al-Nassr, the larger question is not only who starts on Monday, but how well the squad can handle the pace of the schedule. A second win would strengthen their position in the West group and help keep momentum moving in the right direction.
