Furor Erupts Over Ronaldo’s Apparent Obscene Taunt In Saudi League Match – News18

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia: Cristiano Ronaldo has come below heavy criticism after seemingly making an offensive gesture following Al Nassr’s 3-2 victory over Al Shabab in a Saudi Pro League match on Sunday.

Footage posted on social media appeared to indicate the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner cupping his ear and repeatedly thrusting his hand ahead close to his pelvis, seemingly aimed toward rival Al Shabab supporters, after the match.

In the background, chants of “Messi” may very well be heard. Argentina star Lionel Messi is Ronaldo’s longstanding soccer rival.

While the incident was not captured by tv cameras, criticism of the 39-12 months-previous Portugal striker has been swift and native media stories say that the Saudi soccer federation (SAFF) has opened an investigation.

He might face a suspension, probably jeopardizing his availability for Al Nassr’s subsequent match — towards Al-Hazem on Thursday.

Ronaldo, who accomplished a profitable transfer to the Riyadh-based membership in December 2022, has a league-main 22 objectives this season. His newest got here towards Al Shabab when he opened the scoring with a primary-half penalty earlier than Brazilian Talisca’s late double — together with a objective 4 minutes from time — secured the win for Al Nassr.

Al Nassr trails fellow large-spending rival Al Hilal by 4 factors, having performed a recreation extra.

Al Nassr can be in rivalry for the Asian Champions League — a event it has by no means received — and can play Al-Ain of the United Arab Emirates within the quarterfinals subsequent month.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

(This story has not been edited by News18 workers and is revealed from a syndicated information company feed – Associated Press)