Saudi club Al-Nassr are back in contention for a place in the AFC Champions League Elite after winning an appeal to be awarded three additional points — a decision that could unexpectedly brighten Cristiano Ronaldo’s underwhelming season.
Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Hopes Revived After Points Appeal Victory
The Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced the ruling on Monday, just hours before the final round of the Saudi Pro League. Prior to the decision, Al-Nassr sat in fourth place, out of reach for Asia’s top club competition.
However, the three-point boost has lifted them into third place and within striking distance of Al-Hilal, who are currently second. In the final round, Al-Hilal face Al Qadsiah, while Al-Nassr take on Al-Fateh. If Al-Hilal slip up and Al-Nassr win, Ronaldo’s team could leapfrog into second place — securing automatic qualification for the AFC Champions League Elite next season.
The appeal centered on a March loss to Al-Orubah, in which Al-Nassr claimed that the opposing goalkeeper, Rafi Al-Ruwaili, was ineligible to play as Cristiano Ronaldo was not registered as a full-time professional. The federation ruled in Al-Nassr’s favor, which not only handed them the win but also confirmed Al-Orubah’s relegation.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains the most high-profile figure in Saudi football. Despite being the league’s top scorer with 24 goals this season, he has yet to lift a major trophy since joining Al-Nassr in December 2022. Cristiano Ronaldo future remains uncertain, as his contract is set to expire on June 30. While reports suggest discussions over an extension are ongoing, nothing has been finalized.
Cristiano Ronaldo might still feature in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Reports suggest Cristiano Ronaldo could join another team on loan to take part in the 32-team tournament, which kicks off in the US on June 14.
