AL NASSR’S first match since unveiling Cristiano Ronaldo has been CALLED OFF due to rain causing electrical problems.
The Portuguese superstar, 37, took part in a training session on Tuesday as he prepared to begin his new venture in Saudi Arabia.
He was not set to feature in their clash with Al Ta’ee on Thursday due to a ban placed upon him by the FA.
But, had he played anyway as the club wanted him to, the Al Nassr supporters would have been left disappointed after the match – which was due to take place at 3pm BST – was postponed.
It is now expected to take place on Friday.
A statement released by the club just hours before the game cited the weather as having caused electrical issues.
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It read: “Due to heavy rain and weather conditions impacting the stadium’s electricity, we have been officially informed that tonight’s match against Al Ta’i is postponed for 24 hours.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to fans and wish everyone safe travels.”
Supporters, club staff and security were all left confused as they waited outside the Mrsool Park stadium for confirmation of what was happening.
And it was not until a little more than two hours before kick-off when the club officially called the game off.
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It was unknown whether Ronaldo would have played on Thursday or if he will feature in the rescheduled match on Friday.
Fifa have made it clear he has to serve the two-match suspension he was handed for slamming a phone out of an Everton fan’s hand back in November.
Ronaldo later issued an apology via social media for his “outburst” and issued an invite for the supporter to be his guest for a game at Old Trafford.
He wrote: “It’s never easy to deal with emotions in difficult moments such as the one we are facing.
“Nevertheless, we always have to be respectful, patient and set the example for all the youngsters who love the beautiful game.
“I would like to apologise for my outburst and, if possible, I would like to invite this supporter to watch a game at Old Trafford as a sign of fair-play and sportsmanship.”
But the 14-year-old Jake – who has autism – declined the forward’s offer and refused to accept his apology.
Should Ronaldo miss Al-Nassr’s next two games, it means he is likely to make his debut against Ettifaq on January 22 instead.
Ronaldo penned a two-and-a-half-year deal with Al Nassr which is expected to set the club back more than £350million.
It was revealed earlier this week that he could leave the club for Champions League football due to a clause in his contract.
However, he appeared to quash that speculation during his press conference on Tuesday.
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Ronaldo said: “I gave my word for this club.
“I won everything, I played for the most important clubs in Europe and now it is a new challenge in Asia.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
