Match story
- Saudi Arabia fired more attempts (28 vs 1 shots).
- Saudi Arabia was more accurate in front of goal (25% on target vs 0%).
- Saudi Arabia held more of the ball (75% possession).
Saudi Arabia defeated Kyrgyzstan 0-2 in the Asian Cup. The fixture is part of the Group Stage - 2 stage in the 2023 season. The match was played at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan. J. Iida officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Kyrgyzstan vs Saudi Arabia meeting in Asian Cup with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Asian CupRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Saudi Arabia defeated Kyrgyzstan 0-2 in the Asian Cup. The fixture is part of the Group Stage - 2 stage in the 2023 season. The match was played at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan. J. Iida officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Kyrgyzstan vs Saudi Arabia meeting in Asian Cup with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Asian Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo's dream to claim the 2026 World Cup with Portugal has begun, currently at the Round of 32. Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again. Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, when they visit Al Diriyah for the Round of 32 in the 2026-27 King’s Cup at Al Awwal Park. However, the Portuguese star’s presence remains to be a major question as he has recently returned to the training sessions alongside his teammates. The icon’s 2026-27 international campaign with Portugal following the 2026 World Cup is set to begin on Thursday, September 24, when they host Wales for Matchday 1 of the of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. The forward’s last World Cup game came on July 6th, where Spain beat the Selecao in the Round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 win. In the 2025-26 season, the Portuguese icon scored 30 goals and provided 4 assists in 37 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers and 3 in the 2026 World Cup for Portugal, with his personal account in 976 career goals. Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal celebrates scoring a goal. Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule. From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final. With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo announced that the 2026-27 could be his final season as a professional soccer player, prompting questions on what trophies could he still lift both with Al Nassr and Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo dropped one of the biggest bombshells in recent soccer history, signaling that the 2026-27 campaign could be his final season as a professional player. With the new season getting underway, the Portuguese superstar will be looking to make his prospective last year count by securing as much silverware as possible with Al Nassr and the Portugal national team. In an interview with Vogue magazine released on Sunday, Ronaldo offered a direct update regarding his playing future: “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy. I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.“ The legendary forward also noted that he wants to “have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel,” and enjoy the rewards of his legendary career. In the meantime, this final lap presents one last opportunity to expand his trophy collection before he decides to officially hang up his boots. Ronaldo to hunt Al Nassr success After ending their trophy drought last season, Al Nassr are set to make another major push for the Saudi Pro League title. Ronaldo captured the crown under former manager Jorge Jesus, marking Al Nassr’s first league championship since 2019, and with new manager Ange Postecoglou now in charge, the domestic title stands as one of the premier targets on the calendar leading up to the final matchday on May 29, 2027. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. (Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images) Another trophy Al Nassr will be chasing is the King’s Cup, Saudi Arabia’s premier domestic cup tournament. Ronaldo’s side will face Al Draih in the round of 32 on Tuesday, August 18, and while his participation remains unconfirmed, fans hope the Portuguese icon returns to the pitch to help secure passage to the next round ahead of the May 2027 final. Thanks to their strong domestic performance last season, Al Nassr have also qualified for the 2026-27 Saudi Super Cup, with the semifinals and final scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 4, 2026. Ronaldo’s club will compete alongside Al Ahli, Al Qadsiah, and Al Kholood for the title, a tournament Ronaldo has featured in four times previously, suffering two semifinal eliminations and two final defeats. Finally, Al Nassr’s ultimate crowning objective for the 2026-27 campaign is the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier club competition. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top continental tournament last year, but after finishing atop the SPL table, winning an inaugural Asian continental title remains the defining goal for Al Nassr, whose best historical finish was a runner-up performance in 1996. Ronaldo and the chance for one more title with Portugal Despite producing generations of legendary talent like Eusebio, Luis Figo, Rui Costa, and Pauleta, Portugal captured their first senior international trophies during the Cristiano Ronaldo era, raising their overall count to three. While Ronaldo would miss the 2028 European Championship in the UK and Ireland if he retires at the end of the season, he still has an opportunity to lift one final trophy with the Selecao. Following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, Portugal are set to compete in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. Drawn into Group A in League A, the Selecao will play three home and three away matches against Denmark, Norway, and Wales. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal lifts the UEFA Nations League trophy. (Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) During an extended international window spanning late September and early October, Portugal will host Wales on September 24 before traveling to face Norway on September 27
Aston Villa hitman Ollie Watkins has given the OK to a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who will now speak with Villa. The post Aston Villa Star ‘Has Given The OK’ To Saudi Arabia Move appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave a lasting legacy on football, and it looks like he has one last season to cap off a stunning career. The post ‘This is probably my last year of football’ – Ronaldo makes another retirement hint appeared first on SoccerNews.
Cristiano Ronaldo has surprised soccer fans by revealing that his retirement could come sooner than expected, indicating that the 2026–27 campaign with Al-Nassr may be his final season in professional soccer. An era is approaching its end. Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that his retirement could come sooner than expected, hinting that the 2026–27 campaign may be his final season as a professional soccer player. Following a challenging 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, Ronaldo clarified that he would not participate in the 2030 tournament as an active player, reaffirming that 2026 marked his final international competition. Speaking to Vogue, Ronaldo stated that the 2026–27 season with Al-Nassr will likely mark the conclusion of his career. “This is probably my last year of football. I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he revealed. Cristiano Ronaldo aims to finish career on a high note After a 2026 World Cup in which Portugal fell short in the knockout stage, Ronaldo is focused on solidifying his achievements with Al-Nassr. He aims to secure silverware in Saudi Arabia while pursuing the historic 1,000 career goals milestone. During the 2030 World Cup, Ronaldo will be 45 years old. While his physical fitness remains exceptional, he recognized that competing at the international level requires immense physical sacrifice, leading him to plan his retirement at the conclusion of his current club campaign.
Chelsea winger Pedro Neto could be heading for a surprise move to Saudi Arabia, with Al Hilal making significant progress in their pursuit of the Portugal international. The 26-year-old had previously attracted interest from Premier League rivals, particularly Manchester City, but Al Hilal have now moved decisively. Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a […] The post Chelsea superstar agrees personal terms ahead of potential move to Saudi club appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Samu Costa scored on his Al Nassr debut in the win over Al Fateh and dedicated the victory to Cristiano Ronaldo, who was absent from the match. Samu Costa marked his Al Nassr debut in style, scoring in a 3-0 win over Al Fateh in the club’s Saudi Pro League opener on August 15 — his first appearance since joining Cristiano Ronaldo‘s side. The Portuguese midfielder found the net alongside goals from Joao Felix and Angelo as Al Nassr began the new season with a statement victory. Speaking after the match, Costa reflected on the win and made a point of including Ronaldo in his praise, despite the Portuguese superstar not featuring in the squad. “A good start. We worked hard and deserved the three points. I dedicate the victory to my family, my teammates, and Cristiano Ronaldo,” Costa said. Ronaldo’s absence from the matchday squad was a deliberate call by new head coach Ange Postecoglou, who only recently took charge at Al Nassr. Ronaldo had rejoined training just two days before the match, having spent recent weeks away from the squad following his marriage to Georgina Rodriguez. With Ronaldo sidelined for the opener, it was Angelo, Costa and Felix who stepped up to deliver the win, giving Postecoglou an encouraging start to his tenure in Riyadh. All eyes will now turn to when Ronaldo is expected to make his own season debut for the club. First game. First win. First celebration 🤩💛Samú Costa gets the full Nassr welcome pic.twitter.com/pZE3T9oj9K— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 15, 2026 Ronaldo eyeing return for matchday 2 It was to be expected that Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn’t feature at the start of Al Nassr‘s 2026-27 Saudi Pro League campaign, having missed every training session with the squad and sat out the entire preseason. According to reports out of Saudi Arabia, the captain is also expected to miss Al Nassr’s King Champions Cup opener against Diriyah Club on August 18, with his return now targeted for matchday 2 of the Saudi Pro League against Al Riyadh on August 21.
Today’s fluff has sought shade As these glorious pages reported on Thursday, Galatasaray wanted Gabriel Martinelli. In the following 24 hours things changed a bit, creating greater complexity, something we do not approve of. Arsenal have supposedly been offered the chance to involve the Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen in exchange for the Brazilian, which could be temptong for a side looking for a new No 9. To further sweeten any potential, Ethan Nwaneri could be chucked into it too to make it a mega swap.Tijjani Reijnders may struggle to find a perfect role within Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City. The Dutchman has already been linked with Nottingham Forest, which has stirred some interest in Saudi Arabia from Al Qadsiah, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers and are willing to cough up £51m for the midfielder. Continue reading...
Ahead of the beginning of the 2026-27 season without, Cristiano Ronaldo's new coach Ange Postecoglou made an honest take on Al Nassr's trophy hopes: "I don't promise anything." Cristiano Ronaldo has officially rejoined his teammates and completed his first training session at Al Nassr as the squad prepares for the 2026-27 season under new management. However, new head coach Ange Postecoglou was quick to temper expectations ahead of the upcoming campaign, stating plainly: “I do not promise anything.“ Last season, Jorge Jesus was appointed by Al Nassr to snap a multi-year silverware drought, ultimately guiding the club to a Saudi Pro League title. With Jesus now taking charge of the Portugal national team, Postecoglou was brought in as his replacement, tasked with maintaining that championship momentum. Speaking at Thursday’s press conference at the Dar Al Nassr training complex, Postecoglou was asked about the road ahead following a demanding preseason in which Al Nassr posted a 1-3 record: “When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well.“ While he stopped short of guaranteeing trophies, the new Al Nassr boss made no secret of his ambition for his debut campaign in Saudi Arabia. “Of course, I do not promise anything, and I have always achieved something in my first season,” he said. “The matter is simply that wherever I go, I love to achieve success,” he added. The captain is back. The message is clear 💛Coach Ange: “The league starts today” 🟡 pic.twitter.com/I8BLGWgPIo— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 13, 2026 Unlike last season, Al Nassr will be competing in the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier continental tournament, alongside their domestic duties in the Saudi Pro League, the King’s Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top competition last year, finishing as runners-up in the AFC Champions League Two, but punched their ticket back to the elite tier by winning the SPL title. Postecoglou and his second-season pedigree Under contract through June 2028, Postecoglou’s tenure with the Saudi club extends beyond Ronaldo’s current deal, which runs through June 2027. However, much of the Australian manager’s famed track record has come during his second years in charge, a pattern he readily acknowledges. During his time at Tottenham Hotspur, he famously declared, “I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don’t say things unless I believe them,” a claim that has consistently held up. That history of second-year triumphs spans stops at South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, Celtic, and Tottenham, where he ended the club’s 17-year trophy drought by winning the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League. Postecoglou also became the first manager from his country to take charge of a Saudi Pro League side, a milestone he proudly highlighted. “I am proud of where I am working now. I am an Australian born in Greece, and I have become the first Australian coach in Saudi Arabia, just as I was in England and Japan,” he said during the press conference.
Nottingham Forest remain in the frame for the Netherlands international but he is weighing up whether to accept the offer to link up with coach Brendan Rodgers.
Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders will reportedly make a final decision on his future amid speculation that a Saudi Pro League side have made a substantial bid for his signature.
Al-Qadsiah and Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement in principle for Tijjani Reijnders, according to Fabrizio Romano. The proposed transfer is worth €61 million, but Al-Qadsiah must still convince Reijnders to accept the move to Saudi Arabia. No agreement has been reached with the Netherlands international, leaving his decision as the central part of […] The post Al-Qadsiah reaches €61 million club agreement for Tijjani Reijnders appeared first on SoccerNews.
This should be a big year for Jarrod Bowen, Zan Vipotnik, Ethan Galbraith, Lorent Tolaj, Léo Scienza, Othmane Maamma and Mason MeliaBy Opta AnalystThe Championship, often called the most exciting league in football, is also among the least predictable competitions in Europe. It’s the perfect stage for players to show off their talent before progressing to top-flight football. We’ve picked seven players we’re excited to see in the Championship this season. Continue reading...
PSG and Aston Villa decide the first champion of the European season at the 2026 UEFA Super Cup final, where Omar Artan will be the match referee. The man in the middle for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup 2026 final between PSG and Aston Villa is Omar Artan, a 34-year-old Somali official who becomes the first non-European referee to take charge of the fixture in its history. Artan was appointed to the match in Salzburg, Austria, in what marks his first assignment on a European pitch. The appointment carries extra weight given what Artan went through just months earlier. He was denied entry into the United States at Miami International Airport ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with U.S. authorities citing security concerns. The incident forced him out of officiating at the tournament and sparked outrage back home. Reflecting on the experience, Artan told UEFA: “A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can’t do it, it’s very challenging“. On his Super Cup appointment, he added: “I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here and I’m really proud“. Artan’s refereeing record Artan has built one of the most decorated résumés among African officials in recent years. He became the first Somali referee to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024, a milestone for a country with limited footballing infrastructure, and was subsequently recognized as Africa’s leading referee for his performances that season. #SuperCup referee Omar Artan has touched down in Salzburg 🇸🇴🛬🇦🇹 pic.twitter.com/t4mwbPwFEZ— UEFA (@UEFA) August 10, 2026 His CV also includes the 2025 CAF Champions League final, one of the most prestigious club fixtures on the continent, before FIFA selected him for the 2026 World Cup — an appointment that never materialized due to his U.S. entry denial. Wednesday’s Super Cup final now stands as the biggest match of his career to date, and his first ever in Europe. The full officiating team for PSG vs Aston Villa Artan will be assisted on the touchline by Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed of Djibouti as first assistant referee and Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe of Kenya as second assistant, while Slovenia’s Rade Obrenovič takes charge as the fourth official. In the VAR booth, Marco Di Bello of Italy will serve as the Video Assistant Referee, with Guillermo Cuadra Fernández of Spain assisting him as AVAR — rounding out a team that, like Artan himself, reflects just how far UEFA has widened its pool of match officials for its showpiece fixtures.
As Ronaldo heads towards 1,000 career goals, the league plans to lift the standard of Saudi Arabian football, not just the clubsThere is no Mohamed Salah in the new Saudi Pro League season that kicks off on Thursday and while the era of the ageing megastar is ending, there is still the strong chance the next few months will be dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old is 24 shy of 1,000 career goals and, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner having scored 102 in 107 league games for Al-Nassr, the milestone could – should – be reached this season.Huge as that will be, just how it fits into the plans of the league is unclear. This is the fourth season since the spending started with $957m splashed out in the summer of 2023. It produced thousands of articles, dozens of international broadcasting deals and untold numbers of people worldwide sporting the yellow CR7 Al-Nassr shirt. Now, though, the focus is on getting a little more value for money and lifting not just the clubs, but the standard of Saudi Arabian football in general. Continue reading...
Fabrizio Romano reports that the decision has been made for Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye to continue in the Premier League instead of moving to Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal had been keen on Ndiaye this summer, but it seems the Senegal international has decided that he wants to stay in the English top flight instead of […] The post “Decision made” – Boost for Arsenal as Fabrizio Romano delivers major transfer update appeared first on CaughtOffside.
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Cristiano Ronaldo's dream to claim the 2026 World Cup with Portugal has begun, currently at the Round of 32. Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again. Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, when they visit Al Diriyah for the Round of 32 in the 2026-27 King’s Cup at Al Awwal Park. However, the Portuguese star’s presence remains to be a major question as he has recently returned to the training sessions alongside his teammates. The icon’s 2026-27 international campaign with Portugal following the 2026 World Cup is set to begin on Thursday, September 24, when they host Wales for Matchday 1 of the of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. The forward’s last World Cup game came on July 6th, where Spain beat the Selecao in the Round of 16 with a narrow 1-0 win. In the 2025-26 season, the Portuguese icon scored 30 goals and provided 4 assists in 37 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers and 3 in the 2026 World Cup for Portugal, with his personal account in 976 career goals. Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal celebrates scoring a goal. Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule. From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final. With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo announced that the 2026-27 could be his final season as a professional soccer player, prompting questions on what trophies could he still lift both with Al Nassr and Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo dropped one of the biggest bombshells in recent soccer history, signaling that the 2026-27 campaign could be his final season as a professional player. With the new season getting underway, the Portuguese superstar will be looking to make his prospective last year count by securing as much silverware as possible with Al Nassr and the Portugal national team. In an interview with Vogue magazine released on Sunday, Ronaldo offered a direct update regarding his playing future: “This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy. I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.“ The legendary forward also noted that he wants to “have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel,” and enjoy the rewards of his legendary career. In the meantime, this final lap presents one last opportunity to expand his trophy collection before he decides to officially hang up his boots. Ronaldo to hunt Al Nassr success After ending their trophy drought last season, Al Nassr are set to make another major push for the Saudi Pro League title. Ronaldo captured the crown under former manager Jorge Jesus, marking Al Nassr’s first league championship since 2019, and with new manager Ange Postecoglou now in charge, the domestic title stands as one of the premier targets on the calendar leading up to the final matchday on May 29, 2027. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. (Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images) Another trophy Al Nassr will be chasing is the King’s Cup, Saudi Arabia’s premier domestic cup tournament. Ronaldo’s side will face Al Draih in the round of 32 on Tuesday, August 18, and while his participation remains unconfirmed, fans hope the Portuguese icon returns to the pitch to help secure passage to the next round ahead of the May 2027 final. Thanks to their strong domestic performance last season, Al Nassr have also qualified for the 2026-27 Saudi Super Cup, with the semifinals and final scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 4, 2026. Ronaldo’s club will compete alongside Al Ahli, Al Qadsiah, and Al Kholood for the title, a tournament Ronaldo has featured in four times previously, suffering two semifinal eliminations and two final defeats. Finally, Al Nassr’s ultimate crowning objective for the 2026-27 campaign is the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier club competition. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top continental tournament last year, but after finishing atop the SPL table, winning an inaugural Asian continental title remains the defining goal for Al Nassr, whose best historical finish was a runner-up performance in 1996. Ronaldo and the chance for one more title with Portugal Despite producing generations of legendary talent like Eusebio, Luis Figo, Rui Costa, and Pauleta, Portugal captured their first senior international trophies during the Cristiano Ronaldo era, raising their overall count to three. While Ronaldo would miss the 2028 European Championship in the UK and Ireland if he retires at the end of the season, he still has an opportunity to lift one final trophy with the Selecao. Following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, Portugal are set to compete in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. Drawn into Group A in League A, the Selecao will play three home and three away matches against Denmark, Norway, and Wales. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal lifts the UEFA Nations League trophy. (Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) During an extended international window spanning late September and early October, Portugal will host Wales on September 24 before traveling to face Norway on September 27
Aston Villa hitman Ollie Watkins has given the OK to a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who will now speak with Villa. The post Aston Villa Star ‘Has Given The OK’ To Saudi Arabia Move appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Cristiano Ronaldo wants to leave a lasting legacy on football, and it looks like he has one last season to cap off a stunning career. The post ‘This is probably my last year of football’ – Ronaldo makes another retirement hint appeared first on SoccerNews.
Cristiano Ronaldo has surprised soccer fans by revealing that his retirement could come sooner than expected, indicating that the 2026–27 campaign with Al-Nassr may be his final season in professional soccer. An era is approaching its end. Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that his retirement could come sooner than expected, hinting that the 2026–27 campaign may be his final season as a professional soccer player. Following a challenging 2026 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, Ronaldo clarified that he would not participate in the 2030 tournament as an active player, reaffirming that 2026 marked his final international competition. Speaking to Vogue, Ronaldo stated that the 2026–27 season with Al-Nassr will likely mark the conclusion of his career. “This is probably my last year of football. I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he revealed. Cristiano Ronaldo aims to finish career on a high note After a 2026 World Cup in which Portugal fell short in the knockout stage, Ronaldo is focused on solidifying his achievements with Al-Nassr. He aims to secure silverware in Saudi Arabia while pursuing the historic 1,000 career goals milestone. During the 2030 World Cup, Ronaldo will be 45 years old. While his physical fitness remains exceptional, he recognized that competing at the international level requires immense physical sacrifice, leading him to plan his retirement at the conclusion of his current club campaign.
Chelsea winger Pedro Neto could be heading for a surprise move to Saudi Arabia, with Al Hilal making significant progress in their pursuit of the Portugal international. The 26-year-old had previously attracted interest from Premier League rivals, particularly Manchester City, but Al Hilal have now moved decisively. Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a […] The post Chelsea superstar agrees personal terms ahead of potential move to Saudi club appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Samu Costa scored on his Al Nassr debut in the win over Al Fateh and dedicated the victory to Cristiano Ronaldo, who was absent from the match. Samu Costa marked his Al Nassr debut in style, scoring in a 3-0 win over Al Fateh in the club’s Saudi Pro League opener on August 15 — his first appearance since joining Cristiano Ronaldo‘s side. The Portuguese midfielder found the net alongside goals from Joao Felix and Angelo as Al Nassr began the new season with a statement victory. Speaking after the match, Costa reflected on the win and made a point of including Ronaldo in his praise, despite the Portuguese superstar not featuring in the squad. “A good start. We worked hard and deserved the three points. I dedicate the victory to my family, my teammates, and Cristiano Ronaldo,” Costa said. Ronaldo’s absence from the matchday squad was a deliberate call by new head coach Ange Postecoglou, who only recently took charge at Al Nassr. Ronaldo had rejoined training just two days before the match, having spent recent weeks away from the squad following his marriage to Georgina Rodriguez. With Ronaldo sidelined for the opener, it was Angelo, Costa and Felix who stepped up to deliver the win, giving Postecoglou an encouraging start to his tenure in Riyadh. All eyes will now turn to when Ronaldo is expected to make his own season debut for the club. First game. First win. First celebration 🤩💛Samú Costa gets the full Nassr welcome pic.twitter.com/pZE3T9oj9K— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 15, 2026 Ronaldo eyeing return for matchday 2 It was to be expected that Cristiano Ronaldo wouldn’t feature at the start of Al Nassr‘s 2026-27 Saudi Pro League campaign, having missed every training session with the squad and sat out the entire preseason. According to reports out of Saudi Arabia, the captain is also expected to miss Al Nassr’s King Champions Cup opener against Diriyah Club on August 18, with his return now targeted for matchday 2 of the Saudi Pro League against Al Riyadh on August 21.
Today’s fluff has sought shade As these glorious pages reported on Thursday, Galatasaray wanted Gabriel Martinelli. In the following 24 hours things changed a bit, creating greater complexity, something we do not approve of. Arsenal have supposedly been offered the chance to involve the Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen in exchange for the Brazilian, which could be temptong for a side looking for a new No 9. To further sweeten any potential, Ethan Nwaneri could be chucked into it too to make it a mega swap.Tijjani Reijnders may struggle to find a perfect role within Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City. The Dutchman has already been linked with Nottingham Forest, which has stirred some interest in Saudi Arabia from Al Qadsiah, who are managed by Brendan Rodgers and are willing to cough up £51m for the midfielder. Continue reading...
Ahead of the beginning of the 2026-27 season without, Cristiano Ronaldo's new coach Ange Postecoglou made an honest take on Al Nassr's trophy hopes: "I don't promise anything." Cristiano Ronaldo has officially rejoined his teammates and completed his first training session at Al Nassr as the squad prepares for the 2026-27 season under new management. However, new head coach Ange Postecoglou was quick to temper expectations ahead of the upcoming campaign, stating plainly: “I do not promise anything.“ Last season, Jorge Jesus was appointed by Al Nassr to snap a multi-year silverware drought, ultimately guiding the club to a Saudi Pro League title. With Jesus now taking charge of the Portugal national team, Postecoglou was brought in as his replacement, tasked with maintaining that championship momentum. Speaking at Thursday’s press conference at the Dar Al Nassr training complex, Postecoglou was asked about the road ahead following a demanding preseason in which Al Nassr posted a 1-3 record: “When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well.“ While he stopped short of guaranteeing trophies, the new Al Nassr boss made no secret of his ambition for his debut campaign in Saudi Arabia. “Of course, I do not promise anything, and I have always achieved something in my first season,” he said. “The matter is simply that wherever I go, I love to achieve success,” he added. The captain is back. The message is clear 💛Coach Ange: “The league starts today” 🟡 pic.twitter.com/I8BLGWgPIo— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) August 13, 2026 Unlike last season, Al Nassr will be competing in the AFC Champions League Elite, Asia’s premier continental tournament, alongside their domestic duties in the Saudi Pro League, the King’s Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup. Ronaldo’s side missed out on the top competition last year, finishing as runners-up in the AFC Champions League Two, but punched their ticket back to the elite tier by winning the SPL title. Postecoglou and his second-season pedigree Under contract through June 2028, Postecoglou’s tenure with the Saudi club extends beyond Ronaldo’s current deal, which runs through June 2027. However, much of the Australian manager’s famed track record has come during his second years in charge, a pattern he readily acknowledges. During his time at Tottenham Hotspur, he famously declared, “I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don’t say things unless I believe them,” a claim that has consistently held up. That history of second-year triumphs spans stops at South Melbourne, Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, Celtic, and Tottenham, where he ended the club’s 17-year trophy drought by winning the 2024-25 UEFA Europa League. Postecoglou also became the first manager from his country to take charge of a Saudi Pro League side, a milestone he proudly highlighted. “I am proud of where I am working now. I am an Australian born in Greece, and I have become the first Australian coach in Saudi Arabia, just as I was in England and Japan,” he said during the press conference.
Nottingham Forest remain in the frame for the Netherlands international but he is weighing up whether to accept the offer to link up with coach Brendan Rodgers.
Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders will reportedly make a final decision on his future amid speculation that a Saudi Pro League side have made a substantial bid for his signature.
Al-Qadsiah and Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement in principle for Tijjani Reijnders, according to Fabrizio Romano. The proposed transfer is worth €61 million, but Al-Qadsiah must still convince Reijnders to accept the move to Saudi Arabia. No agreement has been reached with the Netherlands international, leaving his decision as the central part of […] The post Al-Qadsiah reaches €61 million club agreement for Tijjani Reijnders appeared first on SoccerNews.
This should be a big year for Jarrod Bowen, Zan Vipotnik, Ethan Galbraith, Lorent Tolaj, Léo Scienza, Othmane Maamma and Mason MeliaBy Opta AnalystThe Championship, often called the most exciting league in football, is also among the least predictable competitions in Europe. It’s the perfect stage for players to show off their talent before progressing to top-flight football. We’ve picked seven players we’re excited to see in the Championship this season. Continue reading...
PSG and Aston Villa decide the first champion of the European season at the 2026 UEFA Super Cup final, where Omar Artan will be the match referee. The man in the middle for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup 2026 final between PSG and Aston Villa is Omar Artan, a 34-year-old Somali official who becomes the first non-European referee to take charge of the fixture in its history. Artan was appointed to the match in Salzburg, Austria, in what marks his first assignment on a European pitch. The appointment carries extra weight given what Artan went through just months earlier. He was denied entry into the United States at Miami International Airport ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with U.S. authorities citing security concerns. The incident forced him out of officiating at the tournament and sparked outrage back home. Reflecting on the experience, Artan told UEFA: “A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can’t do it, it’s very challenging“. On his Super Cup appointment, he added: “I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here and I’m really proud“. Artan’s refereeing record Artan has built one of the most decorated résumés among African officials in recent years. He became the first Somali referee to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024, a milestone for a country with limited footballing infrastructure, and was subsequently recognized as Africa’s leading referee for his performances that season. #SuperCup referee Omar Artan has touched down in Salzburg 🇸🇴🛬🇦🇹 pic.twitter.com/t4mwbPwFEZ— UEFA (@UEFA) August 10, 2026 His CV also includes the 2025 CAF Champions League final, one of the most prestigious club fixtures on the continent, before FIFA selected him for the 2026 World Cup — an appointment that never materialized due to his U.S. entry denial. Wednesday’s Super Cup final now stands as the biggest match of his career to date, and his first ever in Europe. The full officiating team for PSG vs Aston Villa Artan will be assisted on the touchline by Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed of Djibouti as first assistant referee and Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe of Kenya as second assistant, while Slovenia’s Rade Obrenovič takes charge as the fourth official. In the VAR booth, Marco Di Bello of Italy will serve as the Video Assistant Referee, with Guillermo Cuadra Fernández of Spain assisting him as AVAR — rounding out a team that, like Artan himself, reflects just how far UEFA has widened its pool of match officials for its showpiece fixtures.
As Ronaldo heads towards 1,000 career goals, the league plans to lift the standard of Saudi Arabian football, not just the clubsThere is no Mohamed Salah in the new Saudi Pro League season that kicks off on Thursday and while the era of the ageing megastar is ending, there is still the strong chance the next few months will be dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo. The 41-year-old is 24 shy of 1,000 career goals and, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner having scored 102 in 107 league games for Al-Nassr, the milestone could – should – be reached this season.Huge as that will be, just how it fits into the plans of the league is unclear. This is the fourth season since the spending started with $957m splashed out in the summer of 2023. It produced thousands of articles, dozens of international broadcasting deals and untold numbers of people worldwide sporting the yellow CR7 Al-Nassr shirt. Now, though, the focus is on getting a little more value for money and lifting not just the clubs, but the standard of Saudi Arabian football in general. Continue reading...
Fabrizio Romano reports that the decision has been made for Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye to continue in the Premier League instead of moving to Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal had been keen on Ndiaye this summer, but it seems the Senegal international has decided that he wants to stay in the English top flight instead of […] The post “Decision made” – Boost for Arsenal as Fabrizio Romano delivers major transfer update appeared first on CaughtOffside.
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