RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — A disappointing season for Cristiano Ronaldo could still end on an unexpected high after Al-Nassr won an appeal to be handed three points, which puts qualification for the Asian Champions League within reach.
The Saudi Arabia Football Federation announced the ruling Monday, hours before the final round of the Saudi Pro League season. Al-Nassr had been in fourth place and out of the running to qualify for the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s top club competition.
But the extra three points move Al-Nassr up to third and with a chance of overtaking second-place Al-Hilal in the final round. Ronaldo’s team plays Al-Fateh on Monday evening, while Al-Hilal faces Al Qadsiah.
If Al-Nassr finishes third, it would enter Asia’s second-tier competition instead.
Al-Nassr lost 2-1 to Al-Orubah in March but complained that goalkeeper Rafi Al-Ruwaili was ineligible to play in the game because he was not a full-time professional.
The Saudi Federation ruled in favor of Al-Nassr in a decision that also ensures Al-Orubah will be relegated.
Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, is the biggest star playing in Saudi Arabia but it remains unclear whether the 40-year-old forward will be back for another year at Al-Nassr as his contract expires on June 30. He has yet to win a major trophy since joining Al-Nassr in a big-money move in December 2022, but he is the leading scorer in the league this season with 24 goals.
He could reportedly join another team on loan in order to play at FIFA’s Club World Cup, the 32-team tournament which kicks off in the United States on June 14.
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
The Associated Press
Can you imagine making $18,000 a month while working from home just a few hours a day? I’m doing it, and I never thought it was possible until I found this online opportunity. The work is super easy, and you don’t need any prior experience—just a desire to succeed! I can’t believe how much my life has changed in such a short time. If you’re ready to take control of your income, visit the website and get started today!
Can you imagine making $18,000 a month while working from home just a few hours a day? I’m doing it, and I never thought it was possible until I found this online opportunity. The work is super easy, and you don’t need any prior experience—just a desire to succeed! I can’t believe how much my life has changed in such a short time. If you’re ready to take control of your income, visit the website and get started today!
Visit This…… https://Join.Work43.Com