Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr Cancels $373,000 Worth of Tickets for AFC Champions League Showdown With Al Ain – Reports

Al Nassr has been going through a rough stretch lately. Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. have endured two consecutive losses. But as they return to action for tomorrow’s AFC Champions League action against Al Ain, spirits, nevertheless, remain high. Yet, just hours before the match, reports suggest that Luis Castro’s side has been compelled to cancel thousands of tickets.

The much-anticipated Leg 2, which will be held at the 25,000-seater Al Awal Park Stadium, saw its tickets sell out in no time. However, around 2,349 tickets for tomorrow’s match were traded on the black market for 1.4 million riyals or $373,000. Therefore, in order to preserve the rights of fans who were eager to purchase tickets legally, Al Nassr allegedly decided to cancel all the tickets sold on the black market and provide compensation in return. This is certainly quite a bold step taken by the Knights of the Najd for their ardent fans, which also comes with a financial blow as well.

While Al Nassr took this step in order to avoid debauchery regarding ticket sales, it’s unclear whether they would consider putting all 2,349 tickets on resale. Otherwise, we may expect the majority of the stands to be empty. Notably, this isn’t the first time that the practice of selling match tickets on the black market has occurred. Big games across Europe and other top flights around the world also encounter similar situations even today. Meanwhile, star player Cristiano Ronaldo also pledged to give his all for the fans of Al Nassr tomorrow. 

Cristiano Ronaldo sends a ‘remontada’ warning to Al Ain

In Leg 1, Al Nassr returned to Saudi Arabia with a narrow defeat against Al Ain. Despite facing misfortune, Cristiano Ronaldo exuded confidence ahead of their upcoming clash. The Al Nassr skipper declared, “We will not spare any drop of sweat for the fans of Al Nassr. Tomorrow, remontada!”  It appears CR7 is determined to secure nothing less than a victory against the UAE side, demanding a resurgence.

READ MORE: Despite Cristiano Ronaldo’s Motivation, Sadio Mane Feels ‘Ashamed’ of His Al Nassr Performances- “Do or Die”

Al Nassr is coming off a 1-3 loss against Al Raed in the Roshn League. Clearly, the AFC Champions League represents the team’s best chance to claim significant silverware this season. It remains to be seen if they can maintain their composure and secure a win against their opponents. Otherwise, they may face an early exit from the prestigious tournament. 

READ MORE: Saudi Minister Teases Project With Cristiano Ronaldo Amid Surprise Meeting With Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou, Following Jibe at Lionel Messi

Do you think Al Nassr will turn the tables against Al Ain? Also, let us know your thoughts about their decision to cancel thousands of tickets.