RIYADH, October 6, 2024 - In Riyadh last night, Cristiano Ronaldo led Al-Nassr against Al-Ourouba. The stadium was buzzing with excitement as fans, draped in blue and yellow, gathered for what promised to be another thrilling match in Al-Nassr’s season, with Ronaldo once again at the heart of the action.
A DREAM - It was a night unlike any other in Riyadh. As Cristiano Ronaldo stepped out onto the pitch for his game with Al-Nassr, the stadium came alive. Thousands of fans had gathered, eager to see him. After almost two years since one of football’s greatest players had made the move to Saudi, the feeling into the Al Awwal Park is the one of an entire nation that cheers him as if it were the very first appearance.
Khaled Alruwais, a devoted fan at the match, expressed his excitement about Ronaldo’s presence in Saudi Arabia: “Ronaldo coming in here feels like a dream come true for many of us. It makes me believe that nothing is impossible. I can achieve anything and everything”.
For many young fans, Ronaldo’s arrival is nothing short of inspirational.
“Having a legend like Ronaldo playing in our local league is an inspiration for many young people who look up to him. Just two years ago, it seemed like a joke to us, but now it’s a reality
THE SEA OF “7” - The scene was nothing short of electric. A sea of blue and yellow wore the iconic number 7 jersey, emblazoned with Ronaldo’s name. Children, teenagers, and adults alike were united in their support, chanting his name and waving banners high in the air. It wasn’t just a game, it was a celebration, a moment where football and culture intertwined.
The stands were packed, with every seat filled by fans eager to catch a glimpse of their hero.
From the younger generation, looking up to Ronaldo as an icon, to older fans, who had followed his career from Manchester United to Real Madrid, there was an overwhelming sense of admiration in the air. Ronaldo wasn’t just another player; he was a symbol of hope, ambition, and the future.
TURNING POINT - Ronaldo’s arrival in the Saudi Pro League marked a turning point for the Kingdom. A league once considered lesser-known has now become the centre of attention, with top players following his steps, and the energy in the stadium this night confirmed it.
As the game unfolded, it became clear that this was about more than just football. It was about the Kingdom’s ambitions on the global stage. Football was only the beginning, Saudi Arabia’s vision for sports extended far beyond the pitch. The Saudi Games were about showcasing the nation’s ability to compete, host, and excel in sports across the board, from athletics to boxing, archery, futsal, and more. The presence of Ronaldo still means Saudi Arabia is no longer on the periphery of global football; the final goal is to create a legacy.
As the final whistle blew, the stadium erupted in applause. Al-Nassr beat Al-Ourouba 3-0 with the Portuguese superstar scoring the first goal on penalty kick, with Senegal’s idol Sadjo Mané securing the victory with a double. The fans are happy with result but more so the excitement comes from knowing to be part of something historical.
