Al-Nassr boss Jorge Jesus has named Cristiano Ronaldo in the starting XI for their Saudi Pro League meeting with Al-Qadsiah, but has left out Sadio Mane from the squad. The Knights of Najd are on the verge of claiming a first league title in nearly a decade, as they stand two wins away from glory.
Cristiano Ronaldo and co were in a rut when they last faced Al-Qadsiah in January, losing 2-1 in front of their fans. They could not be in better form as they head into the encounter this time, having won each of their last 20 games across all competitions.
Thanks for the submission!
Veteran tactician Jesus has made just one change to the XI that claimed a 2-0 victory over Al-Ahli last time out, with Angelo Gabriel replacing Mane. The Senegal international was absent for the reverse fixture in January, as well, as he was away at the AFCON.
Mane’s unexplained absence has left the fans feeling worried about their chances, and a number of them have taken to X to air their opinions. One of the fans announced that the former Liverpool man had been left out of the squad for the game.
Another fan pointed out that things did not go as planned the last time Mane was absent from the squad, questioning the coach.
A fan was left feeling downcast by the absence of the forward.
Another fan was shocked by the absence of the Senegal international.
Sadio Mane has been one of the key performers for Al-Nassr this season, helping them in their quest to claim the league title. He has contributed nine goals and five assists in 22 league appearances this season, and he has played in each of their last 16 wins across all competitions.
Cristiano Ronaldo set for Golden Boot shootout as Al-Nassr, Al-Qadsiah clash
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to go head-to-head with his rival for the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot, Julian Quinones, when Al-Nassr take on Al-Qadsiah. Both players have been named in their respective sides’ starting XI, leading the line in their crunch league clash.
Al-Nassr talisman Ronaldo has found the net 25 times in 26 league appearances this season, including once against Al-Ahli in their last game. The 41-year-old remains in third place in the race for this season’s Golden Boot, behind Quinones and Ivan Toney.
Julian Quinones has scored 28 times in 27 league appearances this season, putting him three goals clear of Cristiano Ronaldo and one clear of Toney. The Mexico international will aim to extend his lead atop the goalscoring charts and become the first player not named Ronaldo to win the Golden Boot since 2023.
Edited by Sulayman Salahudeen
