Mane: Castro Explains Why Senegalese Winger Didn’t Make Al Nassr Squad in AFC Champions League Win

• Sadio Mane was absent in Al-Nassr's 3-1 win over Istiqlol in the AFC Champions League
• The former Liverpool winger was seen in the stands watching his teammate face the Tajik side
• Luis Castro has opened up on the reason behind Mane's absence from the game

Portuguese manager Luis Castro has explained why Senegalese winger Sadio Mane was absent in Al-Nassr's 3-1 win over Istiqlol in the AFC Champions League on Monday, October 2.

The former Liverpool star has been a regular member of the Knights of Najd squad but missed the tie against the Tajikistan side.

The Saudi Pro League side came from a goal down to defeat the Lions 3-1 at the Al-Awwal Park.

Senin Sebai gave the visitors the lead in the 44th minute, but Cristiano Ronaldo led the comeback with a goal in the 66th minute, as Anderson Talisca added a brace to seal all three points for the home side, according to GOAL.

Sadio Mane powers Ronaldo less Al Nassr to next round in Saudi King Cup

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After the game, Castro during an interview claimed that the former Bayern Munich winger was tired and didn't make the squad for the tie.

"Sadio Mane was tired, so we decided to rest him," he said.

Speaking further, the former FC Porto Manager opened up on what he told his players in the halftime break after they were 1-0 down.

"I told the players at halftime that if we continue playing as we finished the first half, we will win the match," he added.

Al-Nassr will now focus on their next game against Abha Club in the Saudi Pro League on Friday, October 6, according to Soccerway.

Ronaldo inspires comeback win for Al-Nassr

Sports Brief earlier reported that Cristiano Ronaldo spearheaded Al-Nassr to a remarkable comeback triumph against Istiqlol Dushanbe in their second AFC Champions League group match on Monday, October 2.

Ronaldo, who had been in exceptional form since the beginning of the season, finally opened his account in Asia's premier club competition. Anderson Talisca then completed the comeback with a brace at the Al-Awwal Park.