Ronaldo moves closer to Champions League qualification

Riyadh: A disappointing season for Cristiano Ronaldo could yet end on a high after Al Nassr were awarded three points in a successful appeal against Al Orubah — a decision that brings qualification for the Asian Champions League back into play.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced the ruling on Monday, just hours before the final round of the Saudi Pro League season. Al Nassr had been in fourth place and out of contention for the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s top-tier club competition.

But the additional three points move them up to third, and Ronaldo’s side now have a chance to leapfrog second-placed Al Hilal in the final round. Al Nassr face Al Fateh on Monday evening, while Al Hilal take on Al Qadsiah.

If Al Nassr finish third, they would qualify for Asia’s second-tier continental competition instead of the AFC Champions League Elite.

Al Nassr had lost 2-1 to Al Orubah in March but lodged a complaint, arguing that Al Orubah goalkeeper Rafi Al Ruwaili was ineligible because he was not registered as a full-time professional. The Federation ruled in favour of Al Nassr, a verdict that also confirms Al Orubah’s relegation.

Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner and the Saudi league’s biggest star, has scored 24 goals this season — more than any other player. But despite his individual form, he has yet to win a major trophy since arriving at Al Nassr in a high-profile move in December 2022.

His contract expires on June 30, and it remains unclear whether the 40-year-old will return for another season. He has reportedly been exploring the possibility of a loan move that would allow him to take part in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off in the United States on June 14.