All eyes are on Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of the highly anticipated Riyadh Season Cup game. Injury issues meant CR7 couldn’t participate in the tournament until now. Yet the 39-year-old, who was once labeled by Jorge Jesus as ‘one of the best in the world’, will be a huge problem on the field for Al Hilal. Moreover, the two seem to even have met ahead of the match. And a prominent Saudi official has detailed the amusing conversation between the two.

Saudi Minister, Turki Alalshikh first-hand witnessed the exchange between the Portuguese duo. He revealed (translated via DeepL), “When we met with Jorge Jesus and Cristiano, Jesus said, ‘We’ll beat Al Nassr by 3 goals’. And Cristiano replied, ‘You’ll win by 3 goals only on PlayStation'”. It seems Jorge Jesus is making a reference to the previous game between the two sides. In December, Al Hilal defeated the Knights of Najd 3-0. This was a rare game where Cristiano Ronaldo was not at his best and he will want to make amends. However, it’s easier said than done.

Al Hilal has been the best team in the country this season and is sitting on top of the league. Moreover, they have yet to face a single defeat this season, despite the absence of Neymar. Besides, the Knights of Najd haven’t had the best of records recently against Jorge Jesus’ side. In their last 5 head-to-head battles, Al Nassr has won just once.

Nevertheless, with Cristiano Ronaldo on the roster, anything is possible. This is why, despite Jorge Jesus’ claim, Turki Alalshikh has no doubts regarding who will emerge victorious in the final.

Saudi Minister makes a bold ‘trophy’ prediction following Cristiano Ronaldo’s return

While the odds are currently (1.75 vs. 2.9) for either side to win, Turkish Al Sheikh shares his view. He said, “Wishes are known today, but my prediction is that the trophy will go to Al Nassr.” Cristiano Ronaldo’s return after nearly a month is likely the reason behind his words.

Al Hilal Vs Al Nassr: Confirmed Lineups, Predictions, Odds, Injury News, Streaming & How To Watch Riyadh Season Cup

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The minister had also claimed to support Al Nassr previously. However, he did clarify that “This talk is old, maybe 2012.” Regardless, he remains a big CR7 admirer and had previously tweeted, “Cristiano must save face and end a major contract soon.” This was during Ronaldo’s troubled second spell at Manchester United. Nevertheless, he will be happy to see the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner fit and firing, while hoping that his bold prediction comes true.

Can Al Nassr beat Al Hilal? Let us know in the comments below.

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