In a thrilling pre-season encounter in Japan, Al Nassr managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Champions League finalists Inter Milan, but the match grabbed headlines as Cristiano Ronaldo was replaced at half-time on Thursday.
The game started with both teams displaying their attacking prowess, but it was Abdulrahman Ghareeb of Al Nassr who broke the deadlock midway through the first half. Ghareeb showcased his striking abilities by expertly guiding the ball into the net from a well-chipped pass delivered by his compatriot, Talisca.
Despite the setback, Inter Milan quickly regrouped, and just a minute before the half-time whistle, Davide Frattesi equalized for the Italian side with a precise header from a cross delivered by Denzel Dumfries.
All eyes were on Cristiano Ronaldo, who had made headlines earlier when he joined Al Nassr from Manchester United in January, bringing Saudi football into the global spotlight. However, the Portugal superstar couldn’t find the back of the net in this match, sending an ambitious long-range effort wide of the target in the 22nd minute.
Ronaldo’s performance aside, the match showcased some brilliant attacking displays. Lautaro Martinez and Joaquin Correa had opportunities to put Inter Milan ahead, but they were unable to capitalize on their chances.
As the half-time whistle blew, both teams made significant changes, and Ronaldo was among the players substituted. Al Nassr manager Luis Castro and his Inter counterpart Simone Inzaghi opted for mass substitutions, refreshing their squads for the second half.
The game continued to thrill in the second period, with Martinez squandering a couple of gilt-edged opportunities to put Inter ahead. However, both teams displayed solid defense and determination, and the deadlock remained unbroken until the final whistle.
The match marked Al Nassr’s second draw of the week in Japan, following a goalless draw against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.
Since Ronaldo’s arrival at Al Nassr, Saudi football has gained international attention, with the Public Investment Fund, one of the world’s wealthiest sovereign wealth funds, continuing to invest in European talent for Saudi clubs. Notably, France striker Karim Benzema joined Al Ittihad from Real Madrid, while Alex Telles followed in Ronaldo’s footsteps, signing for Al Nassr from Manchester United and making his first start in Osaka.
The pre-season clash between Al Nassr and Inter Milan undoubtedly provided an exciting preview of what both teams have in store for the upcoming season, leaving fans eager for more thrilling football action in the future.
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