On Tuesday, Cristiano Ronaldo received a hero’s welcome as he played a crucial role for Al Nassr from Saudi Arabia in Hong Kong. In contrast, his rival Lionel Messi was criticized last year for not playing there.
The 40-year-old ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star Ronaldo assisted in a 2-1 Saudi Super Cup victory over Al Ittihad, featuring French veteran Karim Benzema.
Fans chanted “Ronaldo, Ronaldo” as he warmed up on a hot and humid evening in southern China, where several fans attempted to reach the superstar by invading the pitch.
The crowd cheered every time the Portuguese captain, donning his iconic number seven jersey, touched the ball.
This was a stark contrast to Messi’s absence, which angered fans during an Inter Miami friendly at the same Hong Kong Stadium in February last year.
Messi’s absence led to boos and refund demands from fans who had paid a lot to see the World Cup-winning captain play.
The 38-year-old claimed injury, but this didn’t prevent the fallout, which caused China to cancel two Argentine friendlies.
Some Chinese politicians and media saw Messi’s absence—and his subsequent match in Japan—as a snub.
Messi and Ronaldo have competed for over 15 years for the title of the best player in the world, although Messi is often seen as having the edge recently.
Both remain hugely popular and marketable, even as their careers wind down, with fans camping outside Ronaldo’s Hong Kong hotel for a glimpse.
Some even booked hotel rooms, and a museum dedicated to Ronaldo opened in the city last month.
Local media reported Ronaldo was “emotional” when informed about the local interest, particularly from younger fans.
“This means more to me than any trophy,” he reportedly said.
Pitch Invaders
Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane gave Al Nassr the lead before Al Ittihad equalized shortly after.
Mane was dismissed after a VAR review 25 minutes in.
Ronaldo had two chances six minutes before halftime but was denied each time, and later sent a free-kick just over the bar.
He assisted the winning goal by passing to fellow Portuguese Joao Felix, a new Chelsea signing, who scored.
A young fan wearing a “7 Ronaldo” jersey ran onto the pitch as Ronaldo was substituted in the final minute, but security stopped his selfie attempt.
Two more young fans were tackled after the final whistle when they tried to reach Ronaldo on the pitch.
