Particle.news

Ronaldo Rested as Al-Nassr Reach AFC Champions League Two Quarterfinals

The star’s non-selection signals workload management that puts the league campaign ahead of early continental rounds.

Overview

  • Al-Nassr defeated Arkadag 1-0 in Riyadh to complete a 2-0 aggregate win, with Cristiano Ronaldo watching from the stands.
  • Coach Jorge Jesus has limited Ronaldo’s continental minutes this season, citing rotation and physical demands as the club prioritizes domestic fixtures.
  • Ronaldo ended a brief protest over perceived funding disparities and marked his return by scoring in the Feb. 14 league victory at Al-Fateh.
  • Jesus publicly noted Al-Hilal’s greater “economic power,” while the Saudi Pro League stated all clubs operate independently under the same rules.
  • Al-Nassr are second in the league, one point behind Al-Hilal, and face Al Wasl in the AFC Champions League Two quarterfinal first leg on March 3.