Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from Al Nassr's AFC Champions League tie vs Al Duhail explained
Football![Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from Al Nassr's AFC Champions League tie vs Al Duhail explained](https://images.sportsbrief.com/images/320x180/689761bb2f35413c.webp?v=1)
Portugal secured a 2-0 victory against Iceland at home, concluding their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a flawless record of 10 consecutive wins in Group J.
Led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, the Selecao wrapped up their campaign with 30 points, a significant eight-point lead over Slovakia, securing both teams' places in next year's finals in Germany.
While Ronaldo didn't add to his 10 qualifying goals, Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes initiated the win with a first-half goal against Iceland.
SC Braga forward Ricardo Horta sealed the victory for Roberto Martinez's charges in the second half, capitalizing on a Ronaldo assist.
Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from Al Nassr's AFC Champions League tie vs Al Duhail explained
FootballPortugal's victory on Sunday meant the 2016 European champions have won every match they have played in 2023 after appointing Martinez in January, per BBC.
Despite not scoring, Ronaldo expressed his emotions on social media, celebrating Portugal's accomplishment of winning all their qualification matches.
"Historic clearance, 100% victorious! Congratulations Portugal," the 38-year-old wrote on X (formerly called Twitter).
Considering Ronaldo's age, the match against Iceland might mark his final appearance in the Euro qualifiers. By the time the next qualification for Euro 2028 starts, he will be over 40 years old.
Looking ahead, the former Man United, Real Madrid, and Juventus star will focus on the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Nassr hosting Al Akhdoud on Friday, November 24, as cited by Fotmob.
The Knights of Najd will aim to narrow the gap on league leaders Al Hilal, as they seek to continue their winning streak against the lowly-placed side.
Ronaldo receives praise for joining Al-Nassr after Man United's recent loss to Copenhagen
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Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Portuguese Primeira Liga side Sporting Lisbon made a heartfelt gesture to honour Ronaldo during Portugal’s recent Euro qualifier against Iceland at the Estádio José Alvalade, Sporting's home ground.
As the national team's captain, Ronaldo received a special tribute from the club—a new kit bearing his name and the number 28, a nod to the number he once wore while playing for Sporting.