The fact that Cristiano Ronaldo will not be present at the AFC Champions League Two round of 16 match as Al Nassr takes on Arkadag has been the biggest Asian football news of the week. The move to omit the Portuguese icon in the traveling team to the first leg match in Turkmenistan was shocking to both the fans and analysts alike.
Ronaldo is at the core of the continental drive by Al Nassr this season. He is not merely a star name to the team. He also presents them with the best goal threat. He has influenced with more than just numbers with 17 goals in 18 league games. His leadership and ability to think big are the characteristics that usually characterize the performances of Al Nassr in the moments of stress.
Al Nassr went to the knock out round with a lot of momentum. They had led Group D by a flawless record. Six matches. Six wins. Eighteen points. That consistency saw them emerge as early favorites to the title. That is why the absence of Ronaldo is even greater.
The way the decision was made at what time is a matter of concern. Arkadag are not easy men at home. Arkadag Stadium has become a fortress of the champions of Turkmenistan. They also won the past six games at home. They have a record of 83 percent in winning at home. It is always dangerous to take on such a side against your biggest star.
Tactically, Al Nassr might be operating in the long term. Their campaign has so far featured squad rotation. The coach might be focusing on the fitness of Ronaldo in the second leg that is to decide it all or domestic matters. Nevertheless, in knockout football, there is not a big difference. An error is sufficient to turn the tie.
The unavailability of Ronaldo also places a strain on the other players of the team. Other attackers must step up. Midfielders are required to regulate the pace. The team should remain calm in an unfriendly environment.
It is yet to be known whether this will be a smart or a costly move. To date, the absenteeism of Cristiano Ronaldo has brought drama to an already dramatic AFC Champions League match.
