Despite scoring double against Al Gharafa in their last game, Cristiano Ronaldo was left out of Al Nassr's squad as they faced Al Sadd in the Asian Champions League Elite. Al Sadd's Akram Afif opened the scoring in the second half and although Al Nassr equalized, a late penalty by Adam Ounas sealed the 2-1 victory for the Qatari side. With the loss, Al Nassr stays third in their group while Al Sadd claims a spot in the last 16.
Cristiano Ronaldo Misses Al Nassr's AFC Champions League Elite Debut
Cristiano Ronaldo's much-anticipated debut for Al Nassr in the AFC Champions League Elite has been delayed after the Portuguese superstar was omitted from the squad for their match against Al Sadd. Despite scoring twice in his last game for the Saudi Pro League club, Ronaldo was left out of the lineup for the continental competition.
Al Sadd, led by former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez, took the lead through Akram Afif's goal in the second half. Al Nassr equalized through Talisca, but a late penalty converted by Adam Ounas sealed the 2-1 victory for the Qatari side.
The loss leaves Al Nassr in third place in their group, while Al Sadd claims a spot in the last 16.
Background
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in January 2023 on a lucrative two-and-a-half-year deal reportedly worth $75 million per year. The move marked a significant departure for the 38-year-old forward, who had spent the majority of his career at top European clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
The AFC Champions League Elite is the top club competition in Asia. Al Nassr qualified for the tournament by finishing second in the Saudi Pro League last season.
Top 5 FAQs
Why was Ronaldo left out of Al Nassr's squad for the AFC Champions League Elite? According to Al Nassr's coach, Rudi Garcia, Ronaldo was not registered for the tournament due to technical reasons. Garcia said that the club had only registered eight foreign players for the competition, and Ronaldo was not among them.
When will Ronaldo make his debut for Al Nassr in the AFC Champions League Elite? It is unclear when Ronaldo will make his debut in the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Nassr's next match in the competition is against Sepahan on February 21, 2023. However, it is possible that Ronaldo could still be registered for the tournament before then.
How did Al Sadd perform in the match against Al Nassr? Al Sadd played a disciplined and organized game against Al Nassr. They defended well and created several chances on the counterattack. Afif's goal gave them the lead, and Ounas's late penalty secured the victory.
What are Al Nassr's chances of winning the AFC Champions League Elite? Al Nassr has a strong squad with several experienced players. However, they are in a tough group that also includes Al Sadd and Sepahan. It will be difficult for Al Nassr to win the competition, but they will be hoping to make a good impression in their debut season.
What is the future of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr? Ronaldo is entering the twilight of his career, but he is still one of the most marketable players in the world. Al Nassr will be hoping to cash in on his star power by helping him to win trophies and boost their global brand. However, it remains to be seen how successful Ronaldo will be in Saudi Arabia, and whether he will be able to live up to the high expectations.
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