AFC Champions League 2023-24: Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr secures knockout stage berth with draw against Persepolis

Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded a penalty in the 2nd minute after being brought down inside the box, however, in a remarkable display of sportsmanship, he waved away the decision, suggesting that there had been no contact.

Cristiano Ronaldo is marked by Persepolis’ Georgian defender Giorgi Gvelesiani during the AFC Champions League Group E football match between Saudi’s al-Nassr and Iran’s Persepolis. | Photo Credit: AFP

In a pulsating AFC Champions League Group E encounter, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr played out a tense goalless draw against Persepolis at Al Awwal Park to move to the round of 16. 

The opening minutes witnessed a moment of high drama when Cristiano Ronaldo was awarded a penalty after being brought down inside the box. However, in a remarkable display of sportsmanship, he waved away the decision, suggesting that there had been no contact. The referee, in consultation with VAR, subsequently overturned the penalty.

The match took a dramatic turn in the 17th minute when Al Nassr centre-back Ali Lajami was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Persepolis’ Sarlak. This incident significantly altered the complexion of the game, with the Knights of Njad reduced to 10 men.

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Despite the numerical disadvantage, Al-Nassr displayed resilience and managed to hold on to a point. The second half was more of a cautious affair, with both teams wary of committing further errors.

Persepolis had its chances to break the deadlock, with Torabi and Zahedi both going close with long-range efforts. Ronaldo also had two decent opportunities for Al-Nassr, but his header went straight at the goalkeeper before his crafty shot missed the goal by a whisker. 

In the end, the draw was a fair reflection of the game. Al-Nassr, despite playing with a man less, showed its fighting spirit and determination to secure a point. Persepolis, on the other hand, will be disappointed not to have capitalized on its numerical advantage.