The absence of Cristiano Ronaldo in Al Nassr and their visit to Iraq in order to play Al Zawraa adds a main plot: will they continue to win without him? Their first 5-0 victory over FC Istiklol was a positive response to it, where Sadio Mane and Talisca were spearheading them. But the problem of depth and stamina will be more severely met to-night with the away match.
Ronaldo has never played in the AFC Champions League or the King’s Cup, despite the fact that he is still in top shape in the Saudi league. Having been instrumental with his influence domestically, his objective in his Al Nassr 2-0 league victory against Al Ittihad. His lack of continental competition is controversial, however. Is the club holding him back until later stages or are they demonstrating that their team can perform without any outside assistance?
The depth of the Al Nassr squad is made available on a regional level. Critics had long complained that Saudi teams were excessively dependent on star athletes. At this point, without Ronaldo, the fact that the team may deconstruct its opponents implies a more equal and integrated team. Other players like Abdulrahman Ghareeb and Otavio share equally the load of being creative, thus making Al Nassr difficult to predict and defend.
It will not be easy to face Al Zawraa in the presence of a passionate home crowd. The Iraqi team plays on power and physical intensity, which would interfere with Al Nassr’s rhythm. However, for the Saudi club, handling this hurdle without Ronaldo would not only enhance their dominance in Group D but also send some signals to the rest of Asia: this club is not just CR7.
After all, tonight’s outcome may change the attitude towards Al Nassr in continental football. Their absence of their biggest superstar shows that they are serious contenders for silverware. Loss, on the other hand, would pose new concerns about whether the presence of Ronaldo is still required.
