After some AFC Champions League action, Al Nassr is back to basics. The Knights of the Najd return to pitch for their Saudi Pro League clash against Al Orobah at the Al Awwal Park. Stefano Pioli and Co. will look to keep their winning spirit alive. As we near the kick-off, the obvious question looms over whether star player Cristiano Ronaldo will be playing tonight.

The Portuguese superstar was present in the previous clash against Al Rayyan in the Asian competition. His presence proved favorable as the 39-year-old found his name on the scoresheet alongside Sadio Mane to secure a win over Qatari-based visitors. Ronaldo was also present in the last Saudi fixture against Al Wehda, where his goal again proved favorable in a 2-0 victory.

Luckily, fans will get to see him trying to find the back of the net today. Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to play tonight against Al Orobah. The skipper didn’t show any signs of fatigue hence there’s no reason for Piolo to start him on the bench. Not to mention that enough days were given to the team to recoup from the AFC clash.

During the pre-season, CR7 may have shown that he, too, could be susceptible to injuries. Additionally, a recent virus has impacted his performance in several SPL games. Given this and Al Nassr’s packed schedule, who knows, Pioli might consider using Ronaldo sparingly, possibly bringing him off the bench or calling him back earlier than planned. But then again, this is the least of the possibilities.

This is because, after today’s fixture, domestic action will resume from October 18 due to the upcoming international break. Several of the players are expected to reunite with their national teammates and play the obligatory matches if called up. In the case of Ronaldo, he sure is one to be called up by Portugal boss Roberto Martinez.

He is expected to lead his beloved country in the UEFA Nations League clashes against Poland on October 13th and Scotland on October 16th, before two days later he would be returning back to Saudi. Hence, it would be interesting to see how the former Real Madrid star makes the best of his availability for both his club and country. Lucky for Al Nassr, other of their star players are also close to returning.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. set to welcome their injured stars

Injury worries for Al Nassr have increased in recent days, but they have lessened ahead of the upcoming match. Croatian midfielder Marcelo Brozovic is anticipated to make his return after missing the last game due to a muscle injury. Likewise, Euro 2024 champion Aymeric Laporte also missed the last game due to a minor injury but is likely to be included in the lineup for this match.

Unfortunately, Sami Al Najei, who was sidelined in the previous match because of a knee injury, is expected to be out for a longer period. The rest of the squad looks intact and will give their best to make their steady climb to the top of the table. Al Nassr is currently sitting at fourth with 11 points in hand. Today’s match surely gives them a reason to catch up with leaders.