Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo storms down tunnel in anger following second half substitution
Yesterday at 05:41 PM
Cristiano Ronaldo made his feelings known after being substituted against Al Kholood on Friday night.
The Al Nassr forward played an hour in his side’s 3-1 Saudi Pro League victory.
Having scored after just four minutes, and with his side 3-0 up, Ronaldo was withdrawn by manager Stefano Pioli.
However, the Portuguese icon appeared uncomfortable as he left the pitch during the second half.
Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure as he embraced teammate Jhon Duran before trudging off the pitch.
Although some fans speculated on social media that he was unhappy with Pioli, he shook hands with his Italian boss whilst speaking to him on the touchline.
After their conversation, though, a disappointed-looking Ronaldo was seen heading down the tunnel at Al Awwal Park in what fans will be hoping is not injury-related.
The 40-year-old’s departure from the pitch marked just the fifth time in 24 league matches this season he has not played 90 minutes.
It was the fourth time in seven matches Pioli had taken his captain off, though.
The decision came after Ronaldo had bagged his 28th goal in all competitions this term.
Sadio Mane and Duran both added to Al Nassr’s lead before half-time as they established a comfortable lead.
Al Nassr had been reduced to ten-men just four minutes earlier after Nawaf Boushal was dismissed.
The hosts were also unable to hold onto a clean sheet following Ronaldo’s withdrawal.
An own goal from Ali Lajami in the 72nd minute offered the visitors a potential route back into the match.
But Al Nassr were able to hold on to win 3-1 and secure all three points.
The result leaves Ronaldo’s side fourth in the Saudi Pro League table with nine matches remaining.
They remain ten points adrift of runaway league leaders Al Ittihad ahead of a trip to Al Hilal following the international break.
Ronaldo has once again been named in Portugal’s squad for their upcoming matches.
Roberto Martinez selected the five-time Ballon d’Or winner as his captain for the Nations League quarter-finals.
Portugal will face Denmark home and away on March 20 and 23 for a place in the last-four later this year.
