Cristiano Ronaldo Issues a Warning to Rivals Ahead of Al-Nassr and Al Ain’s AFC Champions League Quarterfinal Clash
Cristiano Ronaldo has issued a warning to Al-Nassr’s quarterfinal opponent in the AFC Champions League, Al Ain, as he prepares to return from suspension.
Ronaldo was banned for one match and fined 30,000 Saudi Riyals (£6,300) for misconduct towards Al-Shabab fans on February 25. Al-Nassr won the match 3-2, but the result was overshadowed by Ronaldo’s controversial reaction to the crowd chanting Lionel Messi’s name. Ronaldo was suspended from playing in the match against Al-Hazm in the 22nd round of the Saudi Pro League.\
In a show of determination ahead of his return, Ronaldo posted on his personal Instagram page with the caption “Ready for tomorrow.” Ronaldo demonstrated eagerness to return to the field to continue his impressive tally of 34 goals across all competitions in the 2023-24 season. Al-Nassr could only manage a 4-4 draw against Al-Hazm in Ronaldo’s absence, leaving them trailing league leaders Al-Hilal by 9 points in the race for the Saudi Pro League title. Ronaldo appeared in the stands at Al-Awwal Park and was visibly moved by the fans chanting his name during the match. Making a comeback and scoring goals is the best way for Ronaldo to repay the faith of the supporters.
Securing a victory is undoubtedly Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal. The Portuguese star, who has previously been the king of European football, will surely aim to continue that legacy in Asian football. Ronaldo and Al-Nassr will hope to gain an advantage in the away leg against the UAE giants Al Ain tonight at 11:00 PM (4/3), with the return leg at home scheduled for March 12.