Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr make special request for their Saudi Super Cup semi-final clash against Al-Taawoun: Reports

According to Al Nassr Zone on X, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Naasr have requested foreign officials for their Saudi Super Cup semi-final clash against Al-Taawoun. Both teams will clash in the four-team tournament on August 14.

The Saudi Super Cup is contested by four teams - the winners and runners-up of the Saudi Pro League and the King's Cup.

Last season, Ronaldo's Al-Nassr finished as runners-up behind champions Al-Hilal in both the league and the King's Cup. Thus, the two teams will be joined by Al-Ahli and Al Taawoun (who finished third and fourth, respectively, in the league) for the Super Cup. Defending champions Al-Hilal will kick off the tournament against Al-Ahli on August 13, while Al-Nassr play Al-Taawooun the following day.

Al-Nassr's reported request for a foreign refereeing team might be related to the controversial red card incident involving Cristiano Ronaldo during their last Saudi Super Cup match. The Portuguese star was shown a red card when they lost 2-1 to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal in April 2024.

Ronaldo was shown a yellow card for protesting a disallowed gaol before receiving his marching order for elbowing an Al-Hilal player. Footage also showed the 39-year-old raising his fist at the referee and sarcastically applauding the official as he walked off the pitch.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr poor pre-season performance

Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr have struggled in pre-season. The Saudi Pro League side, who are missing the Portuguese ace due to his participation in Euro 2024, has been on a tour in Portugal.

They have played six pre-season friendlies so far, recording three draws, two losses, and a win. The Knights of Najd shared the spoils with Louletano DC (1-1) in their first friendly, followed by a 1-0 victory over Maritimo.

In their third pre-season game, Al-Nassr drew 1-1 with SC Farense. This result was followed by consecutive losses to Portimonense (1-0) and FC Porto (4-0). Luis Castro's side were also recently held to a goalless draw by Lusitano GC.

Al-Nassr will hope to have Ronaldo back soon ahead of their Saudi Super Cup semi-final clash with Al Taawoun.