“Potential Threat” Delays Cristiano Ronaldo’s Match by an Hour Following Explosions in Riyadh
- On Monday, Al-Nassr's AFC Champions League Elite match against Neftchi Fergana was delayed by one hour at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh following a security alert issued by Saudi Arabia's Civil Defence.
- Saudi Arabia's Civil Defence issued the warning 15 minutes before scheduled kickoff, citing potential danger amid missile attacks claimed by Yemen-based Houthi rebels. Explosions were reported in Riyadh, forcing teams into the stadium tunnel.
- Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the 33rd minute to help Al-Nassr take control, then secured a two-goal cushion before half-time. The 41-year-old's performance helped steer the team toward victory despite the disruption.
- Neftchi's Ikromjon Alibaev was sent off in the 65th minute for a foul, weakening the visitors' defense. Neftchi defender Anvarjon Gofurov then scored an own goal in the 78th minute, sealing Al-Nassr's 3-1 victory.
- The Saudi-led coalition reported intercepting and destroying two ballistic missiles launched toward Riyadh on Monday. The incident underscored ongoing regional security tensions, shifting focus from the continental fixture to broader challenges in the capital.
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43 Articles
Ronaldo waves Saudi scarf after missile alert delays Riyadh match
Cristiano Ronaldo and other footballers have shown support for Saudi Arabia as deadly Houthi attacks disrupt life in Riyadh, forcing its airport to close and delaying an Asian Champions League match amid renewed fighting in Yemen.
In a game that had its start delayed by the Houtis attack on Riade, Al Nassr won first victory in the Asian Champions with a goal of Ronaldo but there was another moment that "marked" the night.
The Portuguese star's gesture after the match appealed to the home crowd.
Why Ronaldo’s Al Nassr AFC Champions League Elite match was delayed by an hour
Al-Nassr won the match 3-1 with Angelo Gabriel and Ronaldo scoring in the first half. Alisher Odilov pulled a goal back for the visitors before a 78th minute own goal sealed the Saudi team's win.
After noting the 981st ball in his professional career, Forward dedicated himself to the celebration of Saudi Arabia.
Al-Nasr match with star Cristiano Ronaldo postponed due to Saudi shelling by Houthis
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