Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo Named Best Middle East Player for Third Consecutive Year at Globe Soccer Awards


Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has once again etched his name in sporting history by winning the Best Middle East Player award for the third consecutive year at the prestigious Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.

At 40 years of age, the Portuguese superstar continues to defy time, delivering elite-level performances since his move to Al-Nassr, a transfer widely regarded as a turning point for football in the Middle East. Ronaldo has scored over 100 goals across competitions during his time in the region, underlining his unmatched consistency and professionalism.

Beyond individual brilliance, Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia has sparked what many now call the “Ronaldo Effect.” His presence has dramatically elevated the global visibility of the Saudi Pro League, attracting international broadcasters, global sponsors, and top-tier football talent to the region.

The Globe Soccer Awards recognized not just Ronaldo’s goal-scoring exploits, but also his influence on football development, fan engagement, and commercial growth in the Middle East. Stadium attendance, digital viewership, and worldwide interest in Saudi football have surged since his signing.

As Ronaldo continues to set new benchmarks both on and off the pitch, his legacy as one of football’s greatest-ever ambassadors remains firmly intact—proving that age is truly just a number.

Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo Says Retirement Is “Soon,” Reflects on Legacy, Family, and Manchester United


Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his retirement from professional football is approaching, acknowledging that leaving the game he has devoted his life to will be one of the most emotional moments of his career. Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward said he has been mentally preparing for this stage since his mid-to-late twenties, but admitted that nothing will ever replace the excitement of scoring a goal.

“Soon,” Ronaldo said when asked about when he plans to retire. “I think I will be prepared. It will be very, very difficult. But I have prepared my future since I was 25, 26, 27 years old. I think I will be capable to support that pressure. Nothing compares to the adrenaline you have scoring a goal in football. But everything has a beginning and everything has an end. I’m going to have more time for myself, for my family, to raise my kids.”

Ronaldo’s illustrious career has been defined by record-breaking achievements, including being football’s all-time leading goalscorer with 952 goals for club and country combined. Despite already cementing his place among the greatest players of all time, the Portuguese star has publicly stated that he aims to reach 1,000 career goals before calling time on his career.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also reflected on life beyond football, saying he wants to focus on his family and raising his children. He emphasized that he has long been planning for this transition, ensuring he’s ready to embrace a new chapter once he finally steps off the pitch.

Ronaldo also spoke about his continued emotional connection with Manchester United, the club where he rose to global fame. “I’m sad because the club is one of the most important in the world and one that I still have in my heart,” he said. “They don’t have a structure. I hope that changes in the present and future because the potential of the club is amazing. They are not on a good path. And it’s not only about the coach and players… miracles are impossible.”

His comments highlight both nostalgia and concern for the club that helped shape his early career. Despite his current focus on Al Nassr and Saudi Arabian football, Ronaldo’s heart clearly remains tied to Manchester.

As he nears the end of his playing days, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reflections paint the portrait of a man who has conquered every level of football yet continues to pursue excellence. Whether or not he reaches his goal of 1,000 career goals, his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is already secure — and his next chapter, devoted to family and life beyond football, is about to begin.

Sports

Al Nassr Edge Past FC Goa 2-1 in AFC Champions League Thriller at Fatorda


Goa witnessed a spectacular night of football as Al Nassr edged past FC Goa 2-1 in a pulsating AFC Champions League Group D fixture at the Fatorda Stadium. The clash brought together two footballing cultures — the passion of Goan fans and the star power of the Saudi giants — resulting in a memorable showdown.

The match began with Al Nassr asserting dominance early on. Angelo Gabriel opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a precise finish that silenced the home crowd. Goa tried to find rhythm, but Al Nassr doubled their lead in the 27th minute through Haroune Camara, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the goalkeeper.

Just when it seemed Al Nassr would cruise to victory, FC Goa responded with a moment of brilliance. In the 41st minute, Brison Fernandes showcased grit and composure, pulling one back for the home side and igniting hope among the thousands of fans in attendance.

The second half saw Goa pressing hard, pushing for an equalizer with relentless energy, while Al Nassr’s defense stood firm under pressure. Despite a few close chances and roars from the stands, the scoreline remained unchanged as the final whistle blew.

While Al Nassr walked away with the points, FC Goa earned admiration for their fighting spirit against one of Asia’s elite teams. The result places Al Nassr in a strong position in Group D, but Goa’s spirited display ensures they remain a side to watch in the continental competition.

The atmosphere at Fatorda was electric, reminding everyone why football holds a special place in Goan hearts — passion, pride, and perseverance. ⚽🔥

Sports

Is Cristiano Ronaldo Coming to Goa? Here’s What We Know


FC Goa’s CEO, Ravi Puskur, has spoken candidly about the buzz surrounding Al Nassr’s visit to India — and the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo joining the team on the trip.

In a strong statement, Puskur acknowledged the magnitude of the situation. “Let’s be frank, this footballer is bigger than the team. He owns around 20% stake in Al-Nassr, and he is such a global figure that if he decides to sit out a match, even the head coach can’t really overrule him,” he said.

The Indian Super League club is leaving no stone unturned. Puskur revealed that a delegation will be sent to speak with Ronaldo directly. “We’re sending a delegation to speak to him directly. If Ronaldo isn’t coming, we’ll be upfront about it. We don’t want to mislead anyone,” he added.

The CEO also acknowledged the hype — and the risk — for fans. Tickets are reportedly selling fast. “But if he does come and tickets are already sold out, then fans who took that chance will have struck gold,” said Puskur. “They will get to watch, possibly, the greatest footballer ever to walk the planet. After all, a clash with Al Nassr, one of Saudi Arabia’s top clubs, is an event in itself.”

The anticipation now boils down to two key points, as outlined by Puskur:
One — Cristiano Ronaldo is officially registered to play in the match.
Two — Whether or not he boards the flight to Goa.

“That’s something we will only know closer to the time,” he concluded.

If it happens, it will be a landmark moment for Indian football — one that could go down in history as the day Cristiano Ronaldo brought his game to Goa.