09 April 2023 , 22:41
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Cristiano Ronaldo lost his cool and became embroiled in an on-field spat after Al-Nassr were held to a 0-0 draw in the Saudi Pro League by Al-Feiha.
The 38-year-old penned a lucrative deal to move to the Middle East after leaving Manchester United by mutual consent during the World Cup and has been in sizzling form his new club, netting 11 league goals in just 10 games.
The veteran bagged a brace in Al-Nassr's emphatic 5-0 win over Al-Adalah on Tuesday night - but he and his teammates were left frustrated at the weekend as they lost ground in the title race.
Ronaldo and co failed to break down a stubborn Al-Feiha outfit, who stood firm and survived seven minutes of additional time to pinch a point from the Saudi Pro League high-fliers. Ronaldo was visibly agitated at the final whistle - and he was not shy in letting some of his opponents know about it as he left the field.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was captured sharing words with Al-Feiha's Ali Al-Zaqaan, telling him: "You don't want to play," in an apparent reference to the opposition's time-wasting tactics. Al-Zaqaan fired back during the confrontation, while various other players were also in danger of losing their discipline at the final whistle and could be seen arguing with each other as Ronaldo stormed off.
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Ronaldo headed straight down the tunnel while his teammates remained on the field, with handshakes eventually taking place. Al-Nassr boss Rudi Garcia also entered the field of play to remonstrate with the match officials.
Join the debate! What have you made of Ronaldo's decision to move to the Middle East with Al-Nassr? Let us know here.
Ronaldo stormed straight down the tunnel after the match was over (Sky Sports)After Sunday's result, Al-Nassr are now three points behind title rivals Al-Ittihad at the summit of the Saudi Pro League and have work to do if they are to win the domestic crown in Ronaldo's maiden season. Al-Faiha were 10th heading into their showdown with Al-Nassr at the weekend.
Unfortunately for Ronaldo and co, games are running out for them to catch the current league leaders. There are just seven matches left in the domestic campaign - which means Ronaldo is in danger of missing out on what would be his first domestic title since moving to the Middle East.
Ronaldo hinted that he had achieved all he had set out to in Europe when discussing his move to Saudi Arabia at the turn of the year. "I am fortunate that I have won everything I set out to win in European football," the forward said previously "I feel now that this is the right moment to share my experience in Asia."
He added: "Al-Nassr's vision is very inspiring and impressive. I look forward to a different league experience in a different country. I am excited to join my team-mates as soon as possible."