Why did Cristiano Ronaldo not play AFC Champions League match for Al Nassr?

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Cristiano Ronaldo was not in action for Al Nassr in their AFC Champions League match against FC Istiklol on Tuesday (December 5).

Al Nassr played Istiklol in their final match of the group stages and managed a 1-1 draw. They made many changes in their side and played none of their European football superstars.

Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Al Nassr, was also missing from action alongside his teammates like Sadio Mane, Seko Fofana, Aymeric Laporte and others. Amid the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, there are questions about why he was not seen playing for the Saudi giants.

Although Al Nassr were already through to the knockouts prior to the match, Ronaldo not taking the field was a disappointment not just for the Al Nassr fans, but for the Istiklol faithful as well who came to the stadium in anticipation of witnessing the Portugal superstar.

Why Cristiano Ronaldo didn't play in Al Nassr vs FC Istiklol match?

Cristiano Ronaldo got a much-needed break for a couple of days. The Al Nassr player injured his neck in the AFC Champions League match against Persepolis, but still featured in their Saudi League derby against Al Hilal.

The superstar had to wear a neckband in the Al Hilal match which fully showcased his impact injury on his neck was not completely healed. And with Al Nassr already through to the knockouts, it was a wise decision from the Al Nassr coach to rest Ronaldo.

The Saudi Pro League race is going to be a hotly contested one and Ronaldo is certainly going to play a pivotal part for the Knights of Najd in that. The 38-year-old has already netted 15 goals and assisted 7 in just 14 league matches so far. With Al Hilal sitting seven points clear of them at the top, Al Nassr can't afford to slip up in the league anymore.