Huge Opportunity Lost as Cristiano Ronaldo Overturns Penalty Decision Given in Favour of Al Nassr Against Persepolis

Al Nassr settled for a goalless draw against Iran’s Persepolis. However, the Riyadh-based club had a big chance to snatch victory after a penalty was awarded to them. While the home fans almost rejoiced, that’s when the soccer universe witnessed a golden moment of true sportsmanship. To everybody’s surprise, Cristiano Ronaldo immediately asked the referee to overturn the decision. A goal at that moment would have given Al Nassr a dominating headstart. The Portuguese forward also personally missed a huge opportunity.

Despite not winning the game, Ronaldo and Co confirmed their entry in the round of 16 of the AFC Champions League.

Cristiano Ronaldo surprises everyone with gesture of sportsmanship against Persepolis

In the 2nd minute, Al Nassr was awarded a penalty. The referee thought that Persepolis’ defender had fouled Cristiano Ronaldo in the box. However, the veteran immediately got up after the challenge. He suggested that the referee overturn his decision. The match official then checked the pitchside monitor and overturned his decision. However, that gesture of sportsmanship seemingly came at a hefty cost. CR7 could have gone level with the top scorers of 2023, namely Erling Haaland and Harry Kane with 49 goals.

Despite the heartwarming gesture from Cristiano Ronaldo, the Iranian opposition demanded a yellow card for simulation after VAR intervened. In the VAR review, it was clear that the Al Nassr star was expecting contact in the box from the defender.

However, the defender in the end stood his ground. In the end, justice was done for the Iranian club. However, that wasn’t the last of the bookings for the night. Later, Al Nassr defender Ali Lajami was sent off for his poor tackle in the 17th minute.

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However, the away side could not take advantage as Al Nassr defended tightly and held them to a goalless draw. The Saudi club’s manager Luis Castro will be happy in a way with the final result as his team showcased immense defensive solidarity.

A drama-filled goalless draw

The Cristiano Ronaldo penalty decision was not the last controversy in the match. A few minutes later, the fouls started flying in this fast-paced match between the top two sides. This resulted in managers of both teams arguing on the touchline. There were a total of 23 fouls. However, the biggest controversy occurred during the 17th minute of the match. Al Nassr defender Ali Lajmi’s mistimed tackle saw him pay a heavy price. That’s when the tempers started flying high.

Whereas, Al Nassr witnessed a scary moment ahead of their game against league leaders, Al Hilal. During the 75th minute, Persepolis’ goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, while catching the ball mistakenly injured Cristiano Ronaldo on the neck. Al Nassr’s boss Luis Castro ended up substituting him as a precautionary measure and was quick to drop a positive update after the game.

Were you tuned in for this game too? Let us know your review of the goalless draw in the comments below.

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