It was quite a disappointing defeat for Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. in the Riyadh Season Cup. The veteran striker had once famously said, “I’m a professional, who doesn’t like to miss or lose.” It was widely expected that CR7 would lead his team to victory against Al Hilal. However, it wasn’t meant to be and even after 2 days, the defeat still seems to be lingering in his head.
A clip doing the rounds on X shows the Al Nassr team in training. The notable aspect is Cristiano Ronaldo, who didn’t look like the happiest person in the world. The Al Nassr captain was not with his teammates in group training. The star was walking on his own towards the other side of the pitch. The training session was in preparation for the upcoming AFC Champions League game against Al Fayha. Perhaps the frustration of losing against an arch-rival is still on CR7’s mind.
Cristiano trained on his own today! 🔋 pic.twitter.com/8vl8tlVa0l
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) February 10, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rewinding to the defeat, a dejected Cristiano Ronaldo tossed his silver medal into the stands for the supporters. However, this was not the only notable incident on the night. CR7 later picked up an Al Hilal jersey and carried out a shocking gesture with it. But, his recent injury might also be a factor in why he is not with the group.
The 39-year-old suffered a calf injury in January. This ruled him out of Al Nassr’s initial matches in the tournament. Perhaps Luis Castro might want to rest CR7 ahead of the AFC Champions League. After all, the Portuguese manager has already arranged a different kind of preparation for the crunch encounter against Al Fayha.
Luis Castro arranges ‘special drill’ for Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. ahead of Champions League showdown
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
As per recent reports, Al Nassr will be having drills with the Saudi Arabia Olympic soccer team. The Saudi U23 team is an impressive team having secured gold in the U-23 Asian Cup. But why has Castro opted for additional training following a friendly tournament?
As per the coach, the Riyadh Season Cup was a means to identify new players who could fit the team. Hence, the coach reportedly feels the team needs more preparation to get in the groove for the upcoming game. Castro will be hoping that Cristiano Ronaldo will be at his best mentally and physically ahead of the Al Fayha game.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What is your opinion of the training ground footage? Tell us in the comments below.
WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule