New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring for Al-Nassr in their AFC Champions League Elite game paid tribute to his late father. The Portuguese icon once again registered his name on the scoresheet as he scored the deciding goal, helping the Knights of Najd secure a 2-1 victory over Qatari-based club Al-Rayyan.
Al-Nassr played a 1-1 draw against Al-Shorta in their opening Champions League game and following that they needed a positive result. They were without their star striker Ronaldo in that fixture but with their talisman back in action and a new manager in charge they delivered the much-needed outcome.
Sadio Mane opened the scoreline just before the half time (45+1’). Cristiano Ronaldo then doubled his side’s advantage in the 76th minute with a left-footed effort. However, instead of celebrating in his usual “Siu” style he ran to the corner flag and looked up with both arms pointed in the sky.
Speaking after the game Ronaldo revealed that his celebration was dedicated to his father as the day marked his father’s birthday. The Portuguese icon once again wished his father was alive to witness the moment.
The Al-Nassr ace lost his father when he was just 20. As per reports Ronaldo’s father Jose Dinis Aveiro died of liver failure at the age of 52 back in 2005. At that time Cristiano was just starting to gain prominence in the game and was on the books of Manchester United.
Since then, Ronaldo has gone on to collect five Ballon d’Or titles and has cemented his legacy as the leading goal scorer in men’s football history, with a staggering 904 goals to date.
This tribute to Ronaldo was more than just a celebration. It was a reminder of the personal journey that has run parallel to his illustrious professional career. In the twilight of his playing day, these moments take on an even greater emotional weight underscoring how far he has come since those early days of promise and potential.
Al-Nassr’s perfect start under the new manager
Al-Nassr’s fortune have changed since the arrival of their new manager Stefano Pioli. The Italian manager was appointed to replace Luis Castro who was sacked following a run of poor results at the very start of the season.
Since Pioli’s arrival, Al-Nassr have won four games including their most recent victory in the AFC Champions League Elite. The game against Al-Rayyan marked the manager’s debut game in the continental competition. Ronaldo sealed the victory for the Knights of Najd.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been in excellent form under Pioli’s guidance scoring three goals in four matches during his tenure. So far he has scored seven goals and provided two assists for the club.
Al-Nassr will next face Al-Orobah in the Saudi Pro League on October 5. Currently, they are in the fourth spot in the league standings with 11 points from five games.
Cristiano Ronaldo honors his late father with a heartfelt tribute after scoring in Al-Nassr’s 2-1 AFC Champions League victory against Al-Rayyan. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
