Ronaldo Rested as Al‑Nassr Face Goa

Al-Nassr have arrived in Goa for their AFC Champions League 2 tie against FC Goa at Fatorda Stadium on Oct. 22; manager Jorge Jesus confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo remained in Riyadh and was rested and that midfielder Marcelo Brozović also did not travel. Despite those absences, Al-Nassr remain overwhelming favourites, leading Group A after emphatic wins (5–0 v Istiklol, 2–0 v Al‑Zawraa) and having conceded no goals. FC Goa head into Wednesday’s fixture on zero points and without scoring, and coach Manolo Márquez has urged a strong mentality, compact defending and set-piece emphasis. Jesus described Ronaldo’s omission as workload management and a priority for domestic competitions, and Al-Nassr’s depth means several marquee players will still be on show.