Ronaldo scores after match delayed by missile alert

What the report says

Cristiano Ronaldo scored for Al-Nassr in an AFC Champions League match in Riyadh that was delayed by about an hour after Saudi authorities issued a missile-related safety warning shortly before kickoff, according to BBC Sport Football. The Saudi Pro League side went on to beat Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana 3-1, with Ronaldo netting Al-Nassr’s second goal before halftime.

BBC reported that the delay followed a Civil Defence alert in the Saudi capital, which has faced missile attacks linked to Yemen-based Houthi forces. The article said the Saudi-led coalition later stated that a ballistic missile had been intercepted and destroyed. The disruption came amid broader regional concerns, with BBC noting that future sporting events in the area could also be affected.

On the pitch, Al-Nassr took the lead through Angelo in the 33rd minute, and Neftchi briefly pulled one back before being reduced to 10 men. An own goal later extended the home side’s advantage and secured their first Group B victory. The result also added to Ronaldo’s recent scoring run after his return to club football.

The BBC piece placed the match in the context of ongoing security risks in the Gulf and neighboring regions, where major international sports events have at times had to consider contingency plans.