Is Cristiano Ronaldo Playing Tonight for Al Nassr vs Al Ittihad in Saudi Pro League?

The Saudi Pro League is nearly done and one that Cristiano Ronaldo would have mixed feelings on. On a personal level, CR7 has been as prolific as ever and has scored 33 goals and is the league’s top scorer. Unfortunately, his exploits haven’t resulted in much collective achievements as Al Nassr is currently trophyless. The final league game for the Knights of Najd is against last year’s champions Al Ittihad. With a crucial King Cup final against Al Hilal on the horizon, will Castro play CR7 today? Let’s find out below.

With no injury concerns as of now, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to play against former teammate Benzema’s Al Ittihad. There are two major reasons behind this. Firstly, the Portuguese attacker is on the verge of a great individual milestone. One more goal and Ronaldo can break the record for most league goals scored in a Saudi season. This record is currently held by Abderrazak Hamdallah who notched up 34 goals in the 2018/19 season. Notably, he also played for Al Nassr that season. A brace for CR7 means that he could break the record and etch his name into Saudi history.

Furthermore, with just 2 games left in the season, there is no point in resting Cristiano Ronaldo. In fact, giving him 90 minutes today is the best option to keep him in rhythm. One player who is a guaranteed miss today is star defender Aymeric Laporte. The Frenchman was sent off in the previous league game against Al Riyadh. Frustratingly, Laporte’s suspension is reportedly for two matches, meaning he will miss the King Cup final. This has undoubtedly made Cristiano Ronaldo’s mission much harder.

Can Cristiano Ronaldo deliver on his ‘trophy’ promise?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr ends in June 2025. But, before that he has to accomplish a personal objective. The 39-year-old had previously said that he wouldn’t leave the club without winning 5 at least 5 trophies. Currently, the tally stands at 1 having won the Arab Champions Cup. Hence, the Portuguese attacker would want to taste victory against Al Hilal.

A victory would help not only Cristiano Ronaldo but Luis Castro as well. Al Nassr’s failure to win titles so far has put pressure on the Portuguese tactician. As a matter of fact, there have been reports that the side is interested in Inter Milan boss Simeone Inzaghi. Therefore, a win against Al Hilal might help Castro to cool the situation down. But, ahead of that, he has a tricky encounter against Al Ittihad. What is your prediction for the match? Let us know below.