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Is Cristiano Ronaldo Playing Tonight for Al Nassr vs. Al-Khaleej?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Manuel Meza Cienfuegos | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 9:30 AM ET

Cristiano Ronaldo will not play in Al Nassr vs. Al-Khaleej because he continues to recover from a hamstring injury that proved more serious than initially expected.

Al-Khaleej hosts Al Nassr at Al-Khaleej Club Stadium, on matchday 26 of the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo, 41, will therefore miss this game.

The Portuguese was already absent in his team's 1-0 victory against Neom SC on March 7. As confirmed by head coach Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo traveled to Madrid to receive treatment and advance in his recovery.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates victory after winning the Saudi Pro League match between Al Najmah and Al Nassr at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium on February 25, 2026, in Buraydah, Saudi Arabia. Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images

Jesus said medical examinations revealed the injury was more serious than initially expected. "The Portuguese captain traveled to Spain to receive treatment from his personal doctor in Madrid, a step which is common for players seeking specialized medical care. We hope he returns soon to help the team."

Al Nassr remains the league leader with 64 points after 25 games, with a record of 21 wins, one draw, and three losses.

Prior to his injury, Ronaldo was having, once again, a great season. In 26 appearances this season, he records 22 goals and four assists across the Saudi Pro League, King's Cup, Super Cup and AFC Champions League Two.

As a reference, last season Ronaldo recorded 35 goals and four assists in 41 games.

The Portuguese is expected to return at the end of March, according to FotMob. Al Nassr's next matches after the game against Al-Khaleej are against Al-Najma on April 3 and against Al Akhdoud on April 11.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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