Ronaldo Reacts After Leading Al Nassr to AFC Champions League Quarterfinals

Ronaldo Reacts After Leading Al Nassr to AFC Champions League Quarterfinals

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
February 21, 2024 at 8:49 PM
In this article:
Cristiano Ronaldo logo
C. Ronaldo
Al Nassr FC logoFPortugal logo
Al Nassr FC logo
Al Nassr
Saudi Arabia
33
AFC Champions League logo
AFC ACL
Asia
Al-Fayha logo
Al-Fayha
Saudi Arabia
26
  • Cristiano Ronaldo was on target against Al Fayha in the AFC CL
  • The 39-year-old's goal helped Al-Nassr secure a quarterfinal berth
  • It takes his overall tally in Asia to five goals in as many games

Cristiano Ronaldo expressed gratitude to the Al-Nassr supporters following their advancement to the quarterfinals of the 2023–24 AFC Champions League on Wednesday night.

Ronaldo, along with his Portuguese compatriot Otavio, propelled the Riyadh-based giants to a comprehensive three-nil aggregate victory over fellow Saudi League side Al Fayha in the round of 16.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr, AFC Champions League, Al Fayha, quarterfinal
Cristiano Ronaldo in overwhelming joy after netting the second goal to qualify Al-Nassr to the Asian Champions League quarterfinals. Photo credit: @AlNassrFC_EN.
Source: Twitter

The 39-year-old, who ended 2023 as the top goal scorer worldwide with 54 goals, per GOAL, has been in sensational form since the resumption of competitive football in 2024.

Following his crucial goal in the first leg against Al Fayha, Cristiano once again showcased his prowess by scoring in the second leg, adding to Otavio's early goal and securing a 2-0 victory, thus sealing a comprehensive 3-0 triumph over two legs, as cited by Sporting News.

Who will Ronaldo's Al-Nassr face next in Asia?

In the upcoming quarterfinals of the Asian equivalent of the UEFA Champions League, Al-Nassr faces a formidable challenge against Emirati powerhouse Al Ain, according to the AFC.

The first leg is scheduled to be held on March 4 at Al Ain's home ground, with Ronaldo's side hosting the return leg a week later.

Ronaldo's reaction after Al-Nassr's quarterfinal berth

But before the tie, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus ace took to the X platform (formerly Twitter) to celebrate his side's success.

"What a night! We’re through to the next stage. Thank you all for the support!" he wrote.

Sadio Mane woos Ronaldo

Prior to the last-16 clash with Al Fayha, Ronaldo was visibly impressed by Sadio Mane's proficiency with his left foot during a training session with Al-Nassr, Sports Brief reported.

A circulating video on social media showcased Mane's ambidextrous ability as he executed a flawless strike with his left foot. Ronaldo was seen nodding his head in acknowledgement of Mane's skillful display.

Both players have played pivotal roles in Al-Nassr's season, contributing to the club's advancement to the knockout stages of the Asian Champions League.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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