The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has initiated an inquiry into the incident, with a decision expected within the next 48 hours.
In his second season with the Riyadh team, Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo allegedly made a derogatory gesture during a Saudi Pro League match and could be suspended for several games. This sanction could be a major blow for Saudi team Al-Nassr, given their high position in the standings.
The incident occurred after Al-Nassr’s 3-2 win over hosts Al-Shabab on Sunday. Ronaldo was caught on social media repeatedly making an obscene gesture, apparently aimed at Al-Shabab fans.
In addition, social media images suggest that Ronaldo may have been provoked by insults from opposing Al-Shabab fans, with the background noise resembling the shouts of his long-time rival Messi.
Despite the lack of television evidence, Ronaldo has remained unpunished. However, the Saudi daily Asharq Al-Awsat reports that the Saudi Football Federation (SAFF) has opened an investigation into the matter.
According to the same source, the Disciplinary Committee will analyse the incident captured after the match and should make a decision within the next two days.
Ronaldo had already opened the scoring for Al-Nassr in the 21st minute with a penalty kick, while Brazilian striker Anderson Talisca scored twice to secure a 3-2 win over Al-Shabab.
