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 Named in Al-Nassr Squad for Return Leg Against FC Goa


Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in Al-Nassr’s squad for their AFC Champions League Two return leg against FC Goa, set to take place in Riyadh. The Portuguese forward’s inclusion marks a potential return to continental action, but questions remain over whether he will actually feature in the match.

The 40-year-old has been managing his workload this season, with Al-Nassr carefully balancing his fitness across domestic and international commitments. Despite being listed in the official matchday squad, the team’s coaching staff have not confirmed if Ronaldo will start, come off the bench, or be rested.

Al-Nassr currently lead their group in the competition and are aiming to secure qualification to the next round. FC Goa, on the other hand, face a challenging task away from home and will be preparing to counter Al-Nassr’s attacking depth — even if Ronaldo is not in the starting eleven.

The anticipation surrounding Ronaldo’s possible appearance has generated excitement among fans across Asia. His presence, even on the bench, is expected to draw large crowds to the stadium and significant viewership worldwide.

For Al-Nassr, this fixture provides an opportunity to maintain their strong momentum and demonstrate the strength of their squad depth. Whether or not Ronaldo plays, the Saudi side will look to finish the job and progress comfortably in the tournament.

As the team prepares for kickoff in Riyadh, all eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo — waiting to see if the football legend steps back onto the Asian stage.

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.