ABU DHABI: Cristiano Ronaldo Sent Off as Al-Nassr Falls 1-2 to Al-Hilal in Saudi Super Cup Semifinal

In a Saudi Super Cup semifinal clash at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium on Monday, veteran striker Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card during Al-Nassr's 1-2 defeat against Al-Hilal.

Ronaldo was sent off just four minutes before full time for elbowing Al-Hilal defender Ali Hadi Mohammed Al-Bulaihi in frustration as Al-Nassr trailed 0-2.

Despite the setback, fo

Al-Nassr's manager, Castro, criticized the decision, accusing Al-Bulaihi of feigning injury to get Ronaldo sent off.

Castro remarked, "The decision was incorrect. The Al Hilal defender pretended that he was hit in the face, and it was a play on his part, and the contact was small, and they took advantage of Ronaldo’s provocation."

He also expressed disappointment with the VAR referee's handling of the situation, stating, "The VAR referee was supposed to call the main referee, and this is my personal opinion."

Earlier in the match, Al-Hilal took the lead in the 62nd minute when Salem Al-Dawsari connected with Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's cross and calmly put the ball into the net.

Ten minutes later, the defending champions extended their lead as Michael's long cross found Malcolm, who headed the ball home to mark his presence on the scoresheet.

With this victory, Al-Hilal advances to the Saudi Super Cup final, where they will face Al-Ittihad on Thursday, aiming to secure their fourth title.