Ange Postecoglou defends Ronaldo’s substitution as Al-Nassr stages comeback
Ange Postecoglou has defended his bold decision to substitute Cristiano Ronaldo at half-time as Al-Nassr staged a stunning 10-man comeback to beat Al-Ettifaq 3-2, reports BritPanorama.
The Australian’s relationship with Ronaldo is already under scrutiny just two matches into the new Saudi Pro League season, following the manager’s decision to replace his captain during a difficult first half on Tuesday night.
Ronaldo, earning a reported £488,000 a day in Saudi Arabia, made his first start of the season after returning from the summer’s World Cup. However, he struggled, especially after Al-Nassr found themselves down a player due to the 12th-minute dismissal of goalkeeper Bento.
The Brazilian goalkeeper was sent off after bringing down Ondrej Duda outside his area, forcing Postecoglou’s side to navigate a challenging match with only ten men. Al-Ettifaq capitalised on their advantage, with Duda scoring first, followed by Alvaro Medran doubling the lead before half-time.
As the frustration mounted, Ronaldo gestured angrily as he departed the pitch, removing his captain’s armband before heading down the tunnel. Postecoglou’s decision to substitute the 41-year-old before the second half was a significant gamble.
That gamble paid off, as Sadio Mane brought Al-Nassr back into the game with a goal in the 74th minute. Defender Abdulelah Al Amri equalised three minutes later, before Mane sealed a remarkable turnaround in the 90th minute.
Postecoglou dismissed any suggestions that Ronaldo’s substitution should dominate the post-match analysis, asserting that the remarkable effort of his 10 players was the true story of the night. “When I made the substitutions, including taking Ronaldo off, I believed the players coming on could make an impact,” he explained. “I’m proud of them because every substitute made a positive contribution.”
He emphasised the importance of the team’s resilience, stating, “If you see 10 men in those conditions for so long, 2-0 down to come back, that’s the only story today.”
Footage showed Ronaldo absent during Al-Nassr’s celebrations after the final whistle, further intensifying interest in his reaction to Postecoglou’s decision. This incident is not the first controversy Ronaldo has faced since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, following his turbulent exit from Manchester United.
Earlier this year, he was reportedly unhappy with the club’s financial strategy, particularly in relation to their rivals Al Hilal, who enhanced their squad significantly. “No individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club,” the Saudi Pro League commented, reaffirming club independence.
Postecoglou is expected to prioritise team interests as he seeks success in his new role.
