
via Imago
SAFF Roshn Saudi Pro League 2023-24 MD7 Cristiano Ronaldo looks on prior the Al-Nassr SFC vs Al-Ahli Saudi FC Match Day 7 of the SAFF Roshn Saudi Pro League 2023-24 at the King Saud University Stadium on September 14, 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Riyadh King Fahd International Stadium Kingdom of Saudi Arabia PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxJPNxUK Copyright: xStrignerx 2023.09.22_PSI03215_SRA_0002408

via Imago
SAFF Roshn Saudi Pro League 2023-24 MD7 Cristiano Ronaldo looks on prior the Al-Nassr SFC vs Al-Ahli Saudi FC Match Day 7 of the SAFF Roshn Saudi Pro League 2023-24 at the King Saud University Stadium on September 14, 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Riyadh King Fahd International Stadium Kingdom of Saudi Arabia PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxJPNxUK Copyright: xStrignerx 2023.09.22_PSI03215_SRA_0002408
The Al Nassr vs Abha match ended in a disappointing draw for fans of Cristiano Ronaldo. In what was expected to be another victory for the dominating Al Nassr squad, disappointment loomed large. Not only did the team fail to secure the win, but they also risked punishment. The entire Al Nassr squad including Cristiano Ronaldo has done so by not attending the post-game interview.
Leading up to the match, Al Nassr had been on an impressive winning streak, triumphing in 10 consecutive matches. With the incomparable Cristiano Ronaldo spearheading the Golden Boot race, the team seemed unbeatable. However, Abha proved to be a challenging opponent, keeping the Riyadh-based club at bay and ultimately forcing a draw.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Al Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo refuse interview after bitter loss
While the match result itself was disheartening for Al Nassr fans, it was the team’s actions after the game that raised eyebrows all around. Refusing to make any statement or address the loss, the entire Al Nassr squad stunned onlookers. This departure from their usual celebratory post-match rituals, where players used to stay on the pitch to celebrate with the fans, was unexpected.
🚨🎙️|| عبدالعزيز البكر ( SSC ) :
جميع لاعبين #النصر رفضو التصريح بعد المباراة. pic.twitter.com/xORS5azrvH
— كورة | #النصر 🦁 (@9NFCBALL) October 6, 2023
Their actions could have consequences, as avoiding post-match responsibilities can incur penalties and damage the team’s reputation. Understandably, the team felt the weight of the disappointing outcome. Al Nassr had been leading 2-0 within the first 30 minutes of the match. But, things took a turn for the worse as they allowed Abha to score right before halftime and conceded another goal in the 92nd minute.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw, a result that no one had anticipated, given Abha’s struggle to avoid relegation this season. The refusal to participate in the post-game interview can be seen as a manifestation of frustration and disappointment on the part of the Al Nassr players. As for the players of Abha, despite a positive result, the players unfortunately fell short of receiving a 5-figure reward.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite a draw, Abha players fall short of receiving a huge sum
The Abha players demonstrated remarkable resilience against Al Nassr. Despite questionable decisions from the opposing team, Abha showed determination and managed to secure a draw. There was a significant incentive on the line as well, with the opportunity to win $16,000 if they had emerged victorious against Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.

via Imago
ESP: Al Nassr-Benfica. Algarve Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr during the Algarve Cup match. Between Al Nassr and Benfica played at Algarve Stadium on July 20 2023 in Faro, Spain. kpng. Copyright: xAntonioxPozox/xPressinphotox PS_230720_152
This unique incentive from Abha added an intriguing element to the game for all the players. Though they didn’t achieve a win, settling for a draw is still a positive outcome. It is possible that this motivation played a role in their ability to secure the tie.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY| Cristiano Ronaldo and All About His Pets
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT