Cristiano Ronaldo sought to set the tone as Al-Nassr look to bounce back after their epic AFC Champions League exit.
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Ronaldo focuses on league after Champions League exitAl-Nassr look to put defeat behind themTop-three clash with Al-Ahli loomsGetty ImagesWHAT HAPPENED?
The Portuguese forward cut a frustrated figure on Monday as his side tumbled out of Asia's premier competition on penalties after a chaotic seven-goal thriller against Al-Ain. It's been a difficult period for Ronaldo and Al-Nassr who were clearly rocked by elimination with the final four so tantalisingly close. But the captain looked to settle his team for the tasks ahead.
AdvertisementWHAT CRISTIANO RONALDO SAID
"Focused and ready," posted Ronaldo alongside a picture of preparations for Friday night's league encounter with third-placed Al-Hilal.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Al-Nassr need their captain's leadership. Their Champions League elimination came on the heels of two poor Pro League performances, drawing 4-4 with Al-Hazem while Ronaldo served a one-match suspension then crashing to defeat against strugglers Al-Raed at home. With their title hopes all but over as Al-Hilal sweep all before them, they need a positive result to re-energise their campaign.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR AL-NASSR?
Al-Nassr take on Al-Ahli with both sides struggling for momentum after disappointing campaigns. The action gets underway at King Abdullah Sports City at 1900 UK time.