Ronaldo Sends Heart Melting Message to ‘Special’ Iranian Fans After Making Champions League Debut

• Cristiano Ronaldo sent a touching message to the people of Iran after Al-Nassr's Champions League tie
• The ex-Real Madrid star was given a kingly reception throughout his stay in Tehran
• His presence in the Iranian capital virtually brought the entire city to a standstill

Cristiano Ronaldo conveyed a heartfelt message to his Iranian fans following his debut in the AFC Champions League on Tuesday, September 19.

Ronaldo inaugurated his appearance in Asia's premier club competition with a comfortable victory as Al-Nassr smoothly cruised past Persepolis at the Azadi Stadium.

According to Hindustan Times, the former Real Madrid goal-scoring sensation, who was warmly welcomed by enthusiastic fans upon his arrival in Iran, played almost the full match in the 2-0 win.

Despite his remarkable form in the Saudi Pro League, where he scored seven goals in six games, he couldn't replicate his success in the continental championship.

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Nevertheless, second-half goals from Abdulrahman Ghareeb and Mohammed Qassem Al Nakhli ensured that Luis Castro's team began their pursuit of continental glory with a triumphant start, per ESPN.

Following the match, the 38-year-old utilized the X App (formerly known as Twitter) to express his joy about the result.

"Great to get the win today!" he wrote.

CR7 also extended his gratitude to the people of Iran, who showered him with boundless affection.

"A very special thank you to the fans and to all the Iranian people who have made this visit so special for us. Such an incredibly warm welcome!"

The Portuguese football legend will shift his focus to the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Nassr set to welcome fellow championship contenders Al-Ahli on Friday, September 22.

Ronaldo sets enviable new record

Meanwhile, the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient reached an extraordinary milestone in his illustrious career by playing a pivotal role in Al-Nassr's triumph over Persepolis in their AFC Champions League group opener.

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The Portuguese football sensation, widely celebrated for his record-setting accomplishments, further solidified his legacy by becoming the first player in history to complete 1,000 career matches without a single loss.

Over the course of his extensive career, spanning more than two decades, Ronaldo has accumulated an impressive tally of 776 victories, with 224 matches concluding in draws.

Ronaldo settles opponents' penalty dispute

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Ronaldo demonstrated his leadership and sportsmanship when he stepped in to mediate a dispute between two Al-Raed players who were vying for the opportunity to take a penalty kick.

Tensions escalated when Al-Raed players Mohamed Fouzair and Karim El Berkaoui both positioned themselves at the penalty spot, engaging in a heated argument over who should take the shot.

Ronaldo, who was on the field and awaiting the opposing team's penalty, couldn't ignore the unfolding confrontation.