Ronaldo on target as Al-Nassr win after security delay
Al-Nassr defeated Neftchi 3-1 in the AFC Champions League Elite following a security delay caused by missile warnings in Riyadh. Cristiano Ronaldo scored for the Saudi side, which continues its campaign alongside other regional clubs.
Why it matters
The match highlights the intersection of high-profile international sports and the ongoing security challenges in the Middle East.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored Al-Nassr's second goal as the Saudi Pro League champions overcame an hour-long security delay to beat Uzbekistan's Neftchi 3-1 in the AFC Champions League Elite on Monday (October 12, 2026).
Kick-off was delayed after Saudi Arabia's Civil Defence issued a safety warning 15 minutes before the scheduled start time in Riyadh, which has been targeted by missiles fired from Yemen-based Houthis in recent days.
Ange Postecoglou's side shook off the interruption to go in front through Angelo in the 33rd minute with a deflected strike before Ronaldo doubled the lead nine minutes later.
The 41-year-old struck after Sadio Mane delivered a looping cross from the left that Aiman Yahya directed into Ronaldo's path with his chest and the Portuguese forward lashed the ball into the bottom corner with a shot on the turn.
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