'Speed is better than Ronaldo!' — Cristiano Ronaldo blasted by fans as Al-Nassr crash out of AFC Champions League

‎Cristiano Ronaldo is facing a wave of criticism from football fans around the world after Al-Nassr were knocked out of the AFC Champions League semi-finals by Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. Despite Ronaldo's prolific run in the tournament — netting eight goals in as many games — the Portuguese icon failed to deliver when it mattered most in the 3-2 defeat, extending his trophy drought in Saudi Arabia.
‎'Cristiano Ronaldo.'
‎Getty Images Sport
‎Al-Nassr’s hopes of continental glory were dashed in a single-legged semi-final clash, with goals from Sadio Mané and Ayman Yahya proving insufficient against the J1 League side’s clinical edge. Kawasaki's resilience and sharp finishing exposed weaknesses in Al-Nassr’s defense, and the team now exits the competition without silverware once again.
‎Ronaldo, who has scored 91 goals in 102 appearances since joining the Saudi club, was expected to be a decisive figure. However, his quiet performance in this crucial fixture has led to a storm of fan backlash on social media.
‎Popular football commentator @AliHassanHQ harshly quipped, "At this stage, Speed is better than Ronaldo at both football and YouTube." Others, such as @IamHBozz, accused the five-time Ballon d'Or winner of being a “washed man” who “scammed Al-Nassr of £200m every year.”
‎The frustration continued with @Abrampah_ noting, “Always ghosting when it’s time to save the club but statpads unnecessary goals,” while @Aceeeeeeed didn’t mince words, calling the veteran forward a “fraud” who should retire.
‎Despite Ronaldo's remarkable numbers, fans and critics alike are questioning his impact in the most important matches. The semi-final defeat is just the latest disappointment in a series of missed opportunities for Al-Nassr and their marquee signing.
‎Ronaldo and Al-Nassr must now turn their focus back to the Saudi Pro League, where they trail league leaders Al-Ittihad by eight points. With a crucial league clash against Al-Ittihad on the horizon, pressure is mounting on Ronaldo to justify his presence — not just in stats, but in silverware.

MORE FROM THE MADRID ABOVE

Man Utd and Liverpool Set for Transfer Showdown Over Micky van de Ven

Champions League Semi-Final: Atletico Hold Arsenal 1-1 as Alvarez Delivers and VAR Spares Hancko

Chelsea FC Sack Liam Rosenior After Just Three Months in Charge

FSG Sack Manager and Coaching Staff in Sweeping Overhaul by Liverpool Owners

Premier League Twist: Arsenal Urged to Abandon Cautious Style in Fierce Battle With Man City

FIFA 2026 World Cup Nations List: Who Qualified, When and How

‎'Boring' Arsenal Won’t Be Remembered as Great Team, Says Paul Scholes

Mourinho Plays Down Real Madrid Return Talk, Praises Roma Experience

Barcelona Lodge Fresh UEFA Complaint Over Atletico Champions League Exit

Benfica and Chelsea Set for Marco Silva Transfer Tug-of-War