In Riyadh, the continental campaign ended in a bruising night for Al-Nassr, but Ange Postecoglou used his post-match appearance to draw a firm line around Cristiano Ronaldo and his squad.
Postecoglou Defends Ronaldo After Al-Nassr’s Al Ain Collapse
Al-Nassr were beaten 4-0 by UAE side Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite, a result that confirmed their elimination and represented Ronaldo’s heaviest defeat since moving to Saudi football.
The loss brought sharp questions about the Portuguese captain’s form and the team’s recent physical preparation. Postecoglou became involved in a tense exchange with a journalist as he rejected the focus on Ronaldo.
Quick facts
- Al-Nassr lost 4-0 to Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite.
- The defeat ended Al-Nassr’s continental run.
- Cristiano Ronaldo has scored three goals this season.
- Postecoglou said Ronaldo joined the group without a full pre-season.
- Al-Nassr are third in the Saudi Pro League, behind Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.
The Australian coach insisted that responsibility for tactical shortcomings or conditioning issues belongs with him, rather than his players. He said the group’s commitment on the pitch could not be questioned.
“Hasn’t he scored in three matches? Didn’t he have chances to score today?” Postecoglou said, pointing to Ronaldo’s three goals so far this campaign. He also highlighted the limited rest and incomplete pre-season available to the forward before his integration into the side.
His response was intended to protect a dressing room now facing heavy scrutiny after the Al Ain defeat. Postecoglou refused to make Ronaldo the public symbol of a collective setback.
With the Asian exit settled, Al-Nassr must turn quickly towards the domestic title race. They sit third in the Saudi Pro League, chasing Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, and will need to regain momentum if they are to remain in contention.
SEO Title: Ange Postecoglou Backs Cristiano Ronaldo After Al-Nassr Lose 4-0 to Al Ain
SEO Description: Ange Postecoglou defended Cristiano Ronaldo after Al-Nassr’s 4-0 AFC Champions League Elite defeat to Al Ain ended their continental campaign.
