Al Nassr will face Damac FC in a Round 29 match of the Saudi Pro League on Tuesday (April 22) at the Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz Stadium in Abha, Saudi Arabia.
Currently placed third in the league table, Al Nassr trails frontrunners Al Ittihad by eleven points. With the title race heating up, each fixture becomes pivotal, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s role is essential for Al Nassr’s title ambitions. The upcoming contest against eleventh-placed Damac FC holds particular importance, as a victory would help close the gap at the summit.
The 40-year-old striker has been outstanding this season, topping the league’s scoring list with 23 goals in 27 outings. In Al Nassr’s recent 2-1 triumph over Al Riyadh, Ronaldo scored both goals, including a stunning volley considered a contender for the Puskas Award. This standout display not only earned vital points but also showcased Ronaldo’s lasting influence. However, in the most recent game against Al Qadsiah, Ronaldo failed to score and Al Nassr suffered a 2-1 defeat.
Recently, Al Nassr head coach Stefano Pioli praised Cristiano Ronaldo, underscoring the Portuguese forward’s leadership and unwavering drive. Following Ronaldo’s game-winning brace against Al Riyadh, Pioli remarked, “Cristiano Ronaldo helped us build this team as the leader of the group. I can’t talk about his performance on the field; what you saw today is the best response to his critics”.
Pioli also underlined Ronaldo’s dedication and enthusiasm, stating, “He is no longer young, but with the same enthusiasm, with the same passion as when he was a kid… always trying to give the best, to reach the maximum, to score many goals and help the team”.
Nevertheless, coach Stefano Pioli has officially confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will not be available for Al Nassr in the match against Damac FC.
Damac FC vs Al Nassr: Why Cristiano Ronaldo is Not Playing Today?
Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a rest by Stefano Pioli to ensure he is fully prepared for the imminent AFC Champions League quarter-final against Yokohama Marinos. This tactical call is designed to keep Ronaldo in top shape for the key continental matchup.
This move also aligns with Al Nassr’s broader approach to focus on success in Asia. Given the gap in the league, the club is shifting its priorities to the AFC Champions League, where a win over Yokohama Marinos would guarantee a semifinal spot.
Sadio Mane is also Not Playing Today
Alongside Ronaldo’s absence, Al Nassr will also miss Sadio Mane, who is suspended after accumulating too many yellow cards. With both stars sidelined, the coaching team has been forced to revise their tactical strategy. Pioli may switch from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 formation to strengthen wing play and bolster the attack. Colombian striker Jhon Duran is expected to spearhead the offence, supported by Angelo and Wesley in today’s encounter.
Al Nassr is scheduled to clash with Yokohama Marinos in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals this Saturday. Despite Yokohama’s underwhelming domestic form in the J1 League, they’ve shown impressive resilience in the Champions League, making this tie a high-stakes affair for Al Nassr.