Tonight, Al Nassr returns to action against Al Hilal in the Riyadh Season Cup. The much-anticipated clash between the two formidable sides of the Roshn Saudi League has fans on the edge of their seats. As preparations continue, ongoing developments raise questions about the presence of Sadio Mane, citing his AFCON involvement. As per the most recent report, two Al Nassr stars will not start the game but be present on the bench. Who are they? 

Sadio Mane was destined to miss the China tour, which eventually got canceled. He also didn’t feature in the previous game against Inter Miami. The 31-year-old has been busy helping Senegal in the 2023 AFCON. However, his side’s journey in the tournament ended prematurely, as they suffered a defeat at the hands of Ivory Coast in the RO16. Even though his international duty ended before the clash against Miami, the winger took an official leave for a brief vacation. However, now the reports suggest that he is finally available for domestic action. 

Luis Castro has reportedly decided to bench Sadio Mane for tonight’s game. Joining the star winger on the sidelines is Australian defender Aziz Behich. The 33-year-old left-back’s international duty was also cut short after the Socceroos were knocked out of the quarterfinals of the AFC Asian Cup by South Korea. Both Mane and Behich will reportedly play the second half against Al Hilal. This is certainly a massive boost for the Knights of the Najd!

While the air surrounding Mane is clear, what about skipper Cristiano Ronaldo? Is he fit to face Neymar-less Al Hilal?

While Sadio Mane makes the bench, Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘back in action’ message ignites positivity! 

Recent sources suggest that Luis Castro will start Cristiano Ronaldo against Al Hilal in the Riyadh derby. These developments are in line with CR7’s recent Instagram post stating that he is “back in action” and his active participation in Al Nassr’s training sessions, both of which address the injury worries. However, Castro will decide how much CR7 will play.

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo Extends Support to 2 Al Nassr Players Under Investigation Over Refusal to Play for Saudi Arabia

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Notably, the Knights of the Najd are already buzzing following their recent 6-0 victory over Lionel Messi‘s domestic side. Even Al Hilal is entering tonight’s game with a 4-3 win over the MLS side. Now, it’s time for both Riyadh-based clubs to show the world who is the best and take home the trophy.

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule