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Former Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in Al Nassr’s Saudi Super Cup semi-final defeat to Al-Hilal.
Al Nassr found themselves two goals behind on Monday night before Ronaldo imploded with just over five minutes of the tie remaining.
The former United man clashed with Al-Hilal defender Al Bulayhi with the ball out of play on the half way line.
¡Cristiano Ronaldo es expulsado! Y CR7 no oculta todo su enfado con el árbitro. 😱🟥 #SSCenFOX pic.twitter.com/OCwbillPj5
— FOX Deportes (@FOXDeportes) April 8, 2024
Ronaldo had the ball in his hands, with Al Bulayhi disputing the decision and attempting to get the ball back, or kill a bit of time to allow his team to get back in shape.
The Portuguese forward took exception and threw a strong elbow into the defender’s chest, earning him a straight red card.
Ronaldo then let his frustrations boil over and looked as though he was going to punch the ball toward the referee who was right to give him his marching orders. He did manage to restrain himself from what would have been very hot water but still refused to leave the pitch quitely.
The 39 year old proceeded to sarcastically clap the referee before gesturing to the crowd who he clearly felt played a part in the decision.
Ronaldo’s meltdown will be another high-profile incident in what has been a turbulent spell in Saudi Arabia so far.
Goals galore but spats of ill-discipline have blighted his time in the Middle East and yesterday’s loss has ended Ronaldo’s chances of ending the season with a trophy.
Al-Nassr couldn’t recover despite Sadio Mane’s late goal to make the game 2-1 in the 99th minute.
Their Asian Champion’s League exit last month was a huge blow as they trail Al-Hilal by 12 points in the Saudi Pro League with just seven games remaining, leaving the Cup their last chance of silverware.
Ronaldo’s red was the 12th of his career with his first coming 20 years ago for United against Aston Villa.
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