With Ronaldo sidelined, the team will depend on standout performers like Sadio Mane and Joao Felix, who have been instrumental with their impressive performances early this season, both bringing a winning mentality to the squad.

Fresh off their victory over Karim Benzema’s Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, where they maintained their top spot in the standings, Al Nassr finds themselves motivated for this crucial matchup. Al-Zwazaa, buoyed by their opening win against Goa, will be looking to capitalize on Ronaldo’s absence as they aim for another victory.

This encounter in Iraq could be pivotal for Al Nassr, as they aspire to achieve great success this season to encourage Ronaldo to stay on with the team, following a conclusion to last season that fell short of expectations.

Why is Ronaldo not playing for Al Nassr vs. Al-Zwazaa today?

Cristiano Ronaldo is absent from Al Nassr’s lineup against Al-Zwazaa because head coach Jorge Jesus opted not to call him up for this fixture. According to Saudi journalist Ali Alabdallah, who reported on his X account during the pre-match press conference, this decision aligns with a strategic approach to managing Ronaldo’s workload.

Alabdallah noted that Jesus is well aware of Ronaldo being 40 years old, and maximizing rest is crucial for him to be available for the more critical fixtures this season. Consequently, the team traveled to Iraq without him for the AFC Champions League matchup, instead relying on the other stars filling their roster.

Confirmed lineup for Al Nassr vs. Al-Zwazaa

With Ronaldo unavailable for this match, head coach Jesus deploys the strongest lineup possible in his absence. Mane, Felix, and Kingsley Coman are starting in today’s game, as the Portuguese manager is determined to secure the victory by all means.

Confirmed lineup for Al Nassr:

Goalkeeper: Bento

Defenders: Sultan, Amri, Martinez, Nawaf

Midfielders: Angelo, Brozovic, Felix, Ayman

Forwards: Coman, Mane

Following last season’s disappointment, where Al Nassr failed to secure any titles, both Ronaldo and the team are determined to avoid a repeat performance. The Portuguese superstar contributed significantly to last season’s efforts, and both he and the club are resolute in their pursuit of silverware this time around.

As they approach this upcoming fixture, Al Nassr are keen to kick off the tournament with a victory. Securing a win could serve as a positive catalyst for the team, aiming to capture titles alongside Ronaldo, an iconic figure known for his celebrated triumphs during his illustrious days in Europe.

Istiklol, part of Group D along with Al Nassr, Goa, and Al-Zawraa, compete in the Tajikistan Premier League. The encounter against Istiklol offer Al Nassr a prime opportunity to extend their promising start to the season.

Why is Cristiano Ronaldo not playing for Al Nassr vs Istiklol?

Cristiano Ronaldo will not play today against Istiklol in the AFC Champions League Two. According to reports from Arabic media outlet Al-Riyadiyah, Ronaldo requested to rest after a hectic schedule, having played numerous matches for both Al Nassr and Portugal in September.

In Ronaldo’s absence, Al Nassr would look to stars such as Sadio Mane, who starts from the bench, as well as Kingsley Coman, and the support from the likes of Joao Felix, to step up and fill the void. A tactical adjustment will be necessary to address the absence of the leading striker.

Confirmed lineup for Al Nassr vs Istiklol

As Ronaldo is sidelined for today’s match, Felix emerges as a crucial alternative to spearhead the attack against the Tajikistan side. His impact has been significant in recent fixtures, contributing two goals. Al Nassr hope to maintain their positive momentum and secure a strong start in their quest for regional dominance.

This is the confirmed lineup for Al Nassr:

Goalkeeper: Bento
Defenders: Sultan, Amri, I. Martinez, Saad
Midfielders: Khaibari, Angelo, J. Felix, Wesley
Forwards: Gareeb, Camara

Al Nassr has given Cristiano Ronaldo the perfect chance to increase his stats. When the Portuguese striker joined the Saudi Arabian club, it was a massive move, and he was determined to change the team’s history.

Now, in the AFC Champions League, Cristiano Ronaldo has added another goal to his tally. Against Yokohama FM, CR7 scored Al Nassr’s third goal after a fortunate rebound he collected inside the box.

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo scores 3-0 for Al Nassr vs Yokohama FM

It seems that week after week, Cristiano Ronaldo is determined to prove why he is one of the best strikers in soccer history. Now with Al Nassr, the former Real Madrid star has taken the club to a whole new level, making it one of the most competitive teams in the Saudi Arabian league.

While titles have not come in large numbers yet, Cristiano Ronaldo is poised to win everything with Al Nassr. The AFC Champions League is now one of his main objectives, and Al Nassr is regarded as one of the strongest contenders to win it.

In the quarterfinals, Al Nassr faced Yokohama FM. After goals by Jhon Duran and Sadio Mane, Cristiano Ronaldo scored the third by capitalizing on a rebound in the box, easily pushing the ball into the net.

[Watch Yokohama F. Marinos vs Al Nassr online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Nassr are eyeing a spot in the AFC Champions League semifinals, the top priority for Cristiano Ronaldo and his squad this season. CR7 and company are aiming to keep their momentum going against Yokohama F. Marinos, a side struggling at the bottom of Japan’s J. League with just 8 points.

While Al Nassr enter as the clear favorite, they’ll need to guard against complacency—Yokohama, with little else to play for, is expected to bring intensity and urgency in what could be their biggest game of the year.

When will the Yokohama F. Marinos vs Al Nassr match be played?

Yokohama F. Marinos take on Al Nassr this Saturday, April 26, in the AFC Champions League quarterfinal, with kickoff set for 3:30 PM (ET).

Yokohama F. Marinos vs Al Nassr: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:30 PM

CT: 2:30 PM

MT: 1:30 PM

PT: 12:30 PM

How to watch Yokohama F. Marinos vs Al Nassr in the USA

Yokohama F. Marinos and Al Nassr are set to square off in this 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available in the USA on Paramount+. Other options: CBS Sports Golazo Network, Amazon Prime Video.

[Watch Al Nassr vs Esteghlal online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Nassr and Esteghlal delivered a thrilling first-leg clash, with the underdogs proving they weren’t just there to make up the numbers. Despite Al Nassr entering as heavy favorites, Esteghlal put up a strong fight, forcing a 2-2 draw that keeps the series wide open.

Ronaldo and his squad remain favored to advance, not only due to their home-field advantage but also because their Saudi Pro League campaign makes this tournament their best shot at silverware. Esteghlal, however, have a golden opportunity to pull off a historic upset and eliminate one of the tournament’s biggest contenders.

When will the Al Nassr vs Esteghlal match be played?

Al Nassr will face Esteghlal this Monday, March 10, in the second leg of the AFC Champions League round of 16, with kickoff set for 2:00 PM (ET).

Al Nassr vs Esteghlal: Time by State in the USA

ET: 2:00 pM

CT: 1:00 PM

MT: 12:00 PM

PT: 11:00 AM

How to watch Al Nassr vs Esteghlal in the USA

Al Nassr and Esteghlal are set to square off in this 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available in the USA on Paramount+.

Alongside stars like Sadio Mane and Marcelo Brozovic, Ronaldo is aiming to add another Champions League trophy to his collection, albeit in a different continent. Known as “Mr. Champions League” for his European dominance, the 40-year-old is determined to lift the Asian equivalent before his illustrious career winds down.

To support Ronaldo’s pursuit of silverware, Al Nassr has strengthened its squad with key reinforcements. However, challenges remain. Age and physical demands are factors Ronaldo must navigate as he continues competing at a high level.

Therefore, Al Nassr decided to rest Ronaldo against Esteghlal. Head coach Stefano Pioli addressed Cristiano’s absence, explaining the decision to rest the veteran forward. “I’m sorry Ronaldo didn’t come to Iran. We didn’t want to risk him getting injured,” Pioli told reporters.

When will Ronaldo play again for Al Nassr?

As Al Nassr prepares to deliver a strong performance against Esteghlal in Iran, fans remain eager for updates on Ronaldo’s return. This marks the second time he will miss an AFC Champions League match, having also been absent from the team’s previous fixture against Persepolis.

To ensure he remains in peak condition for upcoming challenges, Ronaldo is expected to make his return in Al Nassr’s Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Shabab on Friday. Additionally, he is likely to be available for the AFC Champions League second-leg matchup against Esteghlal in Riyadh.

Al Nassr’s projected lineup without Ronaldo

With Ronaldo unavailable for the match against Esteghlal, Jhon Jader Duran is expected to lead the attack. Mané could also feature in the starting XI, alongside Marcelo Brozovic in midfield. In defense, Aymeric Laporte remains sidelined due to injury, with Al Fatil likely stepping in as his replacement.

Predicted starting XI vs. Esteghlal:

• Goalkeeper: Bento
• Defenders: Boushal, Simakan, Al Fatil, Qasheesh
• Midfielders: Wesley, Al Hassan, Brozovic, Angelo
• Forwards: Mane, Duran

[Watch Esteghlal vs Al Nassr online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Nassr secured third place in the league stage, reinforcing their status as strong contenders for the title. With the Pro League race looking uncertain, Cristiano Ronaldo and his squad see this tournament as their best shot at silverware and are fully committed to capitalizing on the opportunity.

Standing in their way are Esteghlal, who pulled off a dramatic last-game victory to clinch their spot. While the odds are against them, Esteghlal are determined to defy expectations and make history by knocking out Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.

When will the Esteghlal vs Al Nassr match be played?

Esteghlal will take on Al Nassr this Monday, March 3, in the first leg of the AFC Champions League round of 16, with kickoff set for 11:00 AM (ET).

Esteghlal vs Al Nassr: Time by State in the USA

ET: 11:00 AM

CT: 10:00 AM

MT: 9:00 AM

PT: 8:00 AM

How to watch Esteghlal vs Al Nassr in the USA

Esteghlal and Al Nassr are set to square off in this 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available in the USA on Paramount+.

Since the arrival of Colombian forward Jhon Jader Duran, Ronaldo has shown clear support for the 21-year-old. Their goal celebrations and Ronaldo’s efforts to help Duran adjust to the team have caught the attention of fans, potentially strengthening Al Nassr’s attacking unit.

Despite already securing a spot in the next round, Al Nassr will be aiming to finish atop Group B. However, the club has announced that both Ronaldo and Duran will be unavailable for Monday’s match against Persepolis.

No official reason has been provided for their absence, but it is believed to be a technical decision to allow them to rest ahead of upcoming challenges. There have been no reports indicating injuries for either player.

The last time Ronaldo didn’t play for Al Nassr

Ronaldo may have turned 40 this year, but he continues to show remarkable energy and commitment for Al Nassr. With the team already through to the next round of the AFC Champions League and in a strong position in the Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese star has reaffirmed his dedication to the club. His recent performances have only reinforced that stance.

The last time Ronaldo was absent from Al Nassr’s lineup was in December 2024, when the team faced Al Sadd in the AFC Champions League. Without him, Al Nassr struggled and suffered a 2-1 home defeat. Their only goal came from an own goal by Al Sadd’s Romain Saiss, highlighting a challenging night for Ronaldo’s teammates.

Al Nassr’s probable lineup without Ronaldo and Duran

With both Ronaldo and Duran unavailable, head coach Stefano Pioli will need to adjust his attack. Two players are expected to step up in the forward line as Al Nassr looks to maintain its offensive firepower against Persepolis.

Here’s Al Nassr’s projected starting XI for the upcoming match:

• Goalkeeper: Bento
• Defenders: Al Ghamdi, Simakan, Laporte, Al Nadji
• Midfielders: Mané, Al Khaibari, Brozović, Otávio
• Forwards: Al Fatil, Ghareeb

[Watch Persepolis vs Al Nassr online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Nassr enter the final group-stage match with a shot at securing the top spot, though the path is far from easy. Cristiano Ronaldo’s squad no longer controls its own fate and must not only secure a win but also hope for losses by both Al Ahli and Al Hilal.

Their opponents, Persepolis, sit on six points—level with Esteghlal but trailing on goal difference—meaning they are currently outside the qualifying zone. Persepolis will be fighting for a win to keep their hopes alive, setting up a high-stakes showdown for both sides.

When will the Persepolis vs Al Nassr match be played?

Persepolis will take on Al Nassr this Monday, February 17, in an AFC Champions League Matchday 7 showdown, with kickoff set for 11:00 AM (ET).

Persepolis vs Al Nassr: Time by State in the USA

ET: 11:00 AM

CT: 10:00 AM

MT: 9:00 AM

PT: 8:00 AM

How to watch Persepolis vs Al Nassr in the USA

Persepolis and Al Nassr are set to square off in this 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available in the USA on Paramount+. Other options: CBS Sports Golazo Network, Amazon Prime Video.

[Watch Al Nassr vs Al Wasl online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Nassr‘s defeat to Al Sadd cost them a shot at leading the West Region, but while their progression to the next round remains secure, Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates are determined to finish atop the standings. With their eyes set on topping the table, they will aim for another victory.

Standing in their way will be Al Wasl, who currently sit on 11 points. Though their qualification for the next round seems nearly certain, Al Wasl will need at least one more point to guarantee their spot, making them a dangerous side in this crucial matchup.

When will the Al Nassr vs Al Wasl match be played?

Al Nassr will take on Al Wasl this Monday, February 3, in an AFC Champions League Matchday 7 showdown, with kickoff set for 1:00 PM (ET).

Al Nassr vs Al Wasl: Time by State in the USA

ET: 1:00 PM

CT: 12:00 PM

MT: 11:00 AM

PT: 10:00 AM

How to watch Al Nassr vs Al Wasl in the USA

Al Nassr and Al Wasl are set to square off in this 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available in the USA on Paramount+. Other options: CBS Sports Golazo Network, Amazon Prime Video.

[Watch Al-Hilal vs Al-Gharafa online in the US on Paramount+]

Al Ahli‘s impressive winning streak came to an end on Matchday 6, as they were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw by Esteghlal, leaving the door wide open for Al Hilal to reclaim the top spot in the West Region. Al Hilal, with 13 points, trail Al Ahli by just three points, so a victory against Al-Gharafa would see them leapfrog their rivals.

Al-Gharafa, sitting just one point outside the qualification spots, will be hoping for a strong result. While a win would be crucial, they know that even a draw would significantly improve their position, moving them closer to the qualification spots, albeit with a lower goal difference than Esteghlal.

When will the Al-Hilal vs Al-Gharafa match be played?

Al-Hilal take on Al-Gharafa this Tuesday, December 3, in an AFC Champions League Matchday 6 showdown, with kickoff set for 1:00 PM (ET).

Al-Hilal vs Al-Gharafa: Time by State in the USA

ET: 1:00 PM

CT: 12:00 PM

MT: 11:00 AM

PT: 10:00 AM

How to watch Al-Hilal vs Al-Gharafa in the USA

Al-Hilal and Al-Gharafa are set to square off in a highly anticipated 2024/25 AFC Champions League matchup, with live coverage available for fans in the USA on Paramount+.