Portuguese global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly demonstrated his deep solidarity and emotional connection with Saudi Arabia as the capital city of Riyadh faces heightened security threats from ongoing Houthi ballistic missile strikes.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner made the gesture on Monday night (October 12, 2026) during Al Nassr's AFC Champions League Elite match against Neftchi Fargana at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. The match kickoff was delayed by one hour due to heightened security protocols following recent regional missile escalations. Before kickoff, Ronaldo publicly kissed the Saudi Arabian national flag. After scoring a brilliant goal in Al Nassr's 3-1 victory, Ronaldo requested a Saudi national team scarf from a fan in the stands, draped it around his neck, and led the home crowd in his signature Viking clap celebration.
Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr in early 2023 and previously extended his contract through 2027 while stating "I am Portuguese, but I am also of Saudi Arabia," drew widespread praise across social media. Sharing photos of his post-match celebration, Al Nassr’s official English media channel posted: "A piece of Saudi Arabia, very close to the heart."
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