After a hoist of friendly battles, Al Nassr returns for a crucial face-off. The Saudi Arabian side will be marking their presence for the emphatic Saudi Super Cup semifinal clash against Al-Taawoun. While the challenge isn’t expected to be an easy one for Luis Castro and Co., the question looms whether star player Cristiano Ronaldo will be playing tonight to help his side take the next step in their pursuit of the prestigious silverware.

The Portuguese superstar has been on vacation with his family after a tumultuous UEFA Euro campaign with his beloved nation. Of course, a rest and recharge was needed for the 39-year-old but his domestic side awaits his return on the pitch as soon as possible. Lucky for Al Nassr, they will see Cristiano Ronaldo play tonight vs Al Taawoun in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal. He returned to training just around the start of this month and has been practicing all the drills very well along with the whole team.

Though the international break did see him give minor injury scares, Ronaldo is fit after a rejuvenating few weeks and a clear medical following his return. This surely comes out to be a significant boost for Castro, who will be looking forward to deploying his overachieving star. Potentially winning the semifinal clash against Al Taawoun will see the Knights of the Najd face Al Hilal in the final, who are coming with a victory over Al Ahli Saudi.

Jorge Jesus’ side has been a major threat to Al Nassr when looking at the previous season’s Saudi Pro League battles. However, the biggest scare for Castro and Co. should be themselves after a rather disastrous pre-season.

Can Cristiano Ronaldo put out the fire at Al Nassr?

8 games, one win—that’s all we have to say about Al Nassr’s 2024/25 pre-season form! The whole month has been quite tremulous for the 9X Saudi League champions as they aren’t looking as dominant as depicted on paper. Though one may argue the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, that gives no reason whatsoever to Al Nassr for giving an underwhelming performance. Castro is expected to lead his side to greater results even in the absence of the team’s leading face.

Already, they curtained their 2023/24 season with an unfortunate defeat in the King Cup final vs Al Hilal, with the baggage of the Saudi Super Cup, Roshn League, and AFC Champions League quarter-final exit as well. The previous season but the recent friendly alone are problematic for not just the team but for Castro. It may seem that the Porto star may be on the brink of losing his job if favorable results aren’t produced.

However, Castro and Al Nassr’s only hope now remains Cristiano Ronaldo. Not manipulating the high stakes already but the Portuguese skipper can inspire his side to get back on track. Need not to reminded that CR7 himself has a point to prove since the day he kept his foot in the Saudi Arabian landscape—win a significant trophy (other than the Arab Club Cup of Champions.) Let’s see tonight is the night where we see Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr where it belongs.