Journalist reveals extent of Cristiano Ronaldo suspension following red card incident in Al Nassr's clash against Al Hilal
A Saudi Arabian journalist has revealed the extent of Cristiano Ronaldo's suspension following his red card against Al Hilal, and fans will breathe a sigh of relief upon learning.
Ronaldo was sent off in their 2-1 loss to Al Hilal in the semi-finals of the Saudi Super Cup on April 8. In the 86th minute, he was shown a straight red for elbowing twice in the chest of Ali Al Bulayhi.
The Knights of Najd were already trailing 2-0 in the match at the time. Sadio Mane pulled a goal back in the ninth added minute, but it was too little too late as Luis Castro's side crashed out.
There were also concerns that Ronaldo could face a lengthy ban for his conduct, but a Saudi journalist with the X handle @a_altamimi11 has revealed that he will miss just one game.
He wrote:
"The legend is expected to be suspended for one match, thus missing the match against Al-Fayhaa in the league."
The news is a huge relief for Al Nassr, who are looking to push leaders Al Hilal all the way in the title race, with only seven games remaining in the Saudi Pro League season. They also have the King Cup of Champions semi-final against Al Khaleej on May 1, and Ronaldo will be crucial to their fortunes.
This is also the second time that he is facing a suspension, having faced a ban on disciplinary grounds for a gesture towards fans after their match against Al Shabab. On that occasion too, the former Real Madrid star got a one-match suspension, missing their 4-4 draw with Al Hazem.
Ronaldo is having a great season
Even at 39 years of age, Cristiano Ronaldo has shown no signs of stopping. The Portuguese ace has netted 36 times in all competitions for Al Nassr this season in 37 games while registering 12 assists.
Although the Saudi Pro League isn't as competitive as Europe's major leagues, to score as many goals at that age is truly remarkable. His incredible tally also includes three hat-tricks in the league, scored against Al Fateh, Al Tai, and Abha.
This shows Ronaldo has had a great campaign with Al Nassr. All that's missing is a trophy, which would be the icing on the cake. Since joining the side in December 2022, he has only won the Arab Club Champions Cup with the side thus far.