Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr started the season with a setback, losing to Al-Ahli in the Saudi Arabian Super Cup through penalties. However, they have bounced back with two consecutive wins in the Saudi Pro League and are now focused on their AFC Champions League Two campaign against Istiklol.
After a disappointing last season where Al Nassr didn’t win any titles, Ronaldo and the team are determined to improve this time. The Portuguese player played a key role last season, and both he and the club aim for success this year.
As they get ready for the upcoming match, Al Nassr is eager to start the tournament with a win. A victory could give them a boost as they strive for titles alongside Ronaldo, known for his achievements in Europe.
Istiklol is in Group D with Al Nassr, Goa, and Al-Zawraa, and competes in the Tajikistan Premier League. The match against Istiklol presents a good opportunity for Al Nassr to build on their promising start.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Al Nassr vs Istiklol?
Cristiano Ronaldo will not play in today’s match against Istiklol in the AFC Champions League Two, as reported by the Arabic media outlet Al-Riyadiyah. He has requested a rest after a busy schedule with Al Nassr and the Portugal national team in September.
With Ronaldo’s absence, Al Nassr will rely on players like Sadio Mane, and possibly Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix, to step up. A tactical adjustment will be needed to compensate for not having their main striker.
Predicted lineup for Al Nassr vs Istiklol
With Ronaldo out, Mane is expected to lead the attack against the team from Tajikistan. He has already scored two goals recently, while Felix has also been performing well. Al Nassr aims to keep their momentum and start strong in their regional quest.
This is the predicted lineup for Al Nassr:
Goalkeeper: R. Al-Najjar
Defenders: N. Boushal, M. Simakan, I. Martinez, A. Yahya
Midfielders: K. Coman, M. Brozovic, Angelo, S. Mane
Forwards: J. Felix, Ali Al-Hassan