Cristiano Ronaldo refused to collect his runners-up medal after Al-Nassr lost 1-0 to Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League 2 final on Saturday. The Portuguese forward, 41, was visibly frustrated as he walked off the pitch at King Saud University Stadium without acknowledging the medal ceremony.
The defeat marks the second time in six days that Al-Nassr have missed out on silverware. On Tuesday, a goalkeeping error in stoppage time cost them victory against Al-Hilal, leaving them with a 1-1 draw. Saturday's loss extends Ronaldo's trophy drought in Saudi Arabia, having now lost four cup finals since joining the club in December 2022.
Deniz Hummet scored the only goal of the match in the first half, as Al-Nassr failed to capitalise on their dominance and home advantage. Ronaldo squandered several chances and was seen sulking after the final whistle. His absence from the medal ceremony has drawn criticism for a lack of sportsmanship.
Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus urged his team to move on quickly. 'We didn't get what we wanted here but there is one more final for us, the Saudi Pro League title, which is very important to us,' he said. 'We have five days to recover and prepare and there is no time for grieving.'
Al-Nassr currently lead the Saudi Pro League by two points over Al-Hilal with one match remaining. A win against Damac on Thursday would secure the title for Ronaldo and his teammates.
