Al-Nassr manager Stefano Pioli has explained that team captain Cristiano Ronaldo missed Friday's Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Taawoun due to a cold.
The Portuguese superstar's absence was felt as Al-Nassr could only manage a 1-1 draw at their home ground, Al-Awwal Park. Goals from Otávio for Al-Nassr and R. Martínez for Al-Taawoun ensured both teams shared the points.
"Ronaldo is absent because he is suffering from a cold," Pioli told the media during the post-match press conference.
The draw leaves Al-Nassr in fourth position on the Saudi Pro League table with 64 points from 32 games. The Knights of Najd have already missed out on winning the league title this season, with Al-Ittihad recently crowned champions.
Ronaldo, who has been a key figure for Al-Nassr since joining the Saudi club, is expected to return for their next fixture against Al-Khaleej scheduled for Wednesday.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner's absence comes at a time when Al-Nassr are looking to secure their position in the league, having already missed out on the championship.
Fans will be hoping for Ronaldo's swift recovery as the team prepares for their upcoming matches in the final stages of the Saudi Pro League season.
