FootballInternationalNews

Ronaldo sees Red as Al-Hilal prevail in Saudi Super Cup semifinal clash

ABU DHABI: In a heated showdown between city rivals Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal, tensions reached a boiling point as Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr, was sent off late in the game. Despite a valiant effort, Al-Nassr fell short, losing 2-1 to Al-Hilal in a dramatic encounter in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

The match witnessed Al-Hilal’s dominance with Jorge Jesus’ squad making their mark in the 62nd minute when Salem Al-Dawsari found the net, capitalizing on a swift break orchestrated by Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s flick.

The momentum continued for Al-Hilal as Brazilian forward Malcolm extended the lead in the 72nd minute with a well-placed header, courtesy of Michael’s precise cross from the right flank. With Al-Nassr trailing by two goals, the pressure mounted as they fought to stage a comeback.

In a moment of contention, Cristiano Ronaldo was shown a straight red card in the dying minutes of the game for elbowing an opponent, compounding Al-Nassr’s woes. Despite the setback, Al-Nassr managed to salvage some pride as former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane found the back of the net in stoppage time, off Abdulrahman Ghareeb’s assist.

As Al-Hilal celebrated their victory and booked a spot in the final, the focus now shifts to their upcoming clash with Karim Benzema’s Al-Ittihad. Al-Ittihad secured their place in the final by defeating Al-Wehda 2-1 in the earlier semifinal showdown on Monday.

Related Articles

Back to top button