Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo has been given a one-match ban and fined 30,000 Saudi Riyals by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) for allegedly “provoking fans” after the team’s victory over Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League.
The incident occurred after Al-Shabab supporters taunted Ronaldo by chanting “Messi,” the name of his longtime rival Lionel Messi. In response, the 39-year-old forward cupped his hand to his ear and made a gesture towards the fans.
The SAFF disciplinary and ethics committee has stated that Ronaldo cannot appeal the decision, meaning he will miss an upcoming match for Al-Nassr. Despite the setback, Ronaldo’s impact in the league has been significant since joining Al-Nassr on a free transfer from Manchester United in December 2022, reportedly securing the biggest football salary in history.
Ronaldo has scored 20 goals in 22 league games this season and opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the Al-Shabab clash, which ended in a 3-2 victory for Al-Shabab with an 87th-minute winner from Talisca.
His move to the Saudi Pro League has attracted attention, with other top European players following suit. Ronaldo’s historic rivalry with Lionel Messi has continued even after both players moved to different leagues.
His absence will be a blow to Al-Nassr as they aim to maintain their position in the league, currently sitting in second place behind Al-Hilal.
Apexnewsgh.com/Ghana/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
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