Jakarta, ThedailyID — Al Nassr coach Ange Postecoglou has responded after Cristiano Ronaldo missed a penalty in his team’s 1-0 victory over Neom SC in the Saudi Pro League on Wednesday, October 21.
Ronaldo had a chance to put Al Nassr ahead just before halftime. The team won a penalty during stoppage time, and captain Ronaldo stepped up to take the kick. However, his right-footed shot went wide, leaving Neom goalkeeper Marcin Bulka with no need to make a save.
Despite the miss, Al Nassr secured all three points through Joao Felix. The Portuguese forward scored in the 61st minute, netting the match’s only goal.
Postecoglou said the victory mattered more than Ronaldo’s missed penalty. He also praised the team’s attacking efforts while acknowledging areas that needed improvement.
“The most important thing for us is to get the win,” Postecoglou said, as quoted by FOX Sports.
“This is the nature of football. It was pleasing to create so many chances, and we will work to correct the mistakes,” he added.
Ronaldo also missed another opportunity early in the second half. The 41-year-old received a headed pass and had a chance to finish with his left foot, but his shot went wide.
Postecoglou nevertheless praised his players for overcoming a difficult opponent. He also pointed to the absence of several key players as a challenge for the team.
“The whole team was outstanding, and we managed to win against a tough opponent who has everything needed to succeed,” he said.
“However, we were hampered by the absence of several key players, and we will work to ensure everyone is ready to play,” Postecoglou added.
Ronaldo’s missed penalty and wasted chances have delayed his pursuit of 1,000 career goals. However, Al Nassr’s victory keeps the focus on the team’s result rather than the captain’s individual misses.
