Why Cristiano Ronaldo Didn’t Play for Al Nassr vs Istiklol in AFC Champions League 2

Overview

Cristiano Ronaldo did not feature for Al Nassr against Istiklol in the AFC Champions League 2 despite being in excellent form. Coach Jorge Jesus opted to rest the star forward for international away fixtures and relied on squad rotation to maintain fitness and balance during a busy season.

Cristiano Ronaldo during a previous Al Nassr match this season.

Al Nassr have opened the 2025–26 season in exceptional fashion staying unbeaten in both the Saudi Pro League and the AFC Champions League 2. A major part of this resurgence is the influence of head coach Jorge Jesus whose attacking approach has transformed the team. As they traveled to face Istiklol fans expected another strong performance yet the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo raised questions.

Ronaldo in Top Form but Rested for Away Matches

Despite scoring a remarkable bicycle kick in the previous match Ronaldo was not included in the squad for this fixture. Coach Jorge Jesus has repeatedly explained in press conferences that the Portuguese superstar is generally not scheduled to participate in away matches outside Saudi Arabia.

This approach allows the 40 year old veteran to recover properly and maintain peak performance for domestic league games where his impact has been most significant.

Rotation Strategy for AFC Champions League 2

Alternative Lineup to Maintain Momentum

With Al Nassr performing strongly in the AFC Champions League 2 Jorge Jesus once again relied on squad rotation. Joao Felix Angelo and Wesley Gassova were expected to lead the attack giving the team enough firepower to secure another win.

Strong Bench Options

Sadio Mane and Haroune Camara started on the bench providing high quality options to change the rhythm of the game if needed. This flexible approach has given Al Nassr a deeper more competitive squad.

Ronaldo Yet to Debut in AFC Champions League 2 This Season

Although Ronaldo has had a spectacular year overall he has not made an appearance in this edition of the AFC Champions League 2.

Even without him Al Nassr have displayed impressive squad depth. The ability to rotate players effectively has been a consistent theme under Jorge Jesus and a major reason for the team success.

This does not mean Ronaldo will miss the entire tournament. With his experience and influence he is likely to be considered for the later knockout stages where his presence could be decisive.

Al Nassr Confirmed Lineup vs Istiklol

With a fully fit squad Al Nassr fielded a rotated but competitive starting XI. Joao Felix and Angelo were both included in the first lineup keeping the team strong in attack.

Meanwhile Sadio Mane and Haroune Camara were placed on the bench giving the coach tactical flexibility. Entering the match undefeated Al Nassr remained the clear favorites to claim all three points.