Ange Postecoglou has praised Cristiano Ronaldo and his Al-Nassr team-mates for their professionalism after a missile threat in Saudi Arabia forced their Asian Champions League match to be delayed by an hour.
The former Tottenham manager admitted he was concerned about his players after a ballistic missile was intercepted near Riyadh on Monday, triggering security alerts across the Saudi capital.
Despite the disruption, Ronaldo scored his 981st career goal as Al-Nassr secured a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan side Neftchi Fergana.
The 41-year-old also made a public show of support for Saudi Arabia following the match, kissing the Al-Nassr badge and celebrating with supporters.
Postecoglou admitted the safety and wellbeing of his players had been his biggest concern after reports of an imminent missile attack raised doubts about whether the match could go ahead.
“I was concerned about how the players felt during the match,” the Australian said.
“But I was absolutely delighted with the professionalism they showed to ignore what had happened and get on with playing football.
“And I would like to thank the Al-Nassr fans for their continued support in difficult times. It is greatly appreciated.”
The comments came after a Saudi-led military coalition confirmed it had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile fired towards Riyadh by the Houthi movement.
The incident prompted widespread concern in the city, with residents receiving emergency alerts on their mobile phones.
The match at Al-Awal Park had originally been due to begin at 9.15pm local time, but broadcasters subsequently announced a one-hour delay.
Supporters inside the stadium were informed that the situation was safe and asked to remain in their seats while authorities assessed the threat.
Ronaldo scores 981st career goal despite Riyadh security alert
Ronaldo was among the players caught up in the disruption but responded by helping Al-Nassr secure an important win.
His strike took his remarkable career tally to 981 goals, leaving him just 19 away from becoming the first player to reach the 1,000-goal milestone.
Ronaldo’s performance also came just days after another controversial episode involving the Portugal national team.
The veteran striker recently left his country’s international camp following a disagreement with manager Jorge Jesus over his playing time.
He subsequently apologised for his actions and was provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation while disciplinary proceedings continue.
Ronaldo’s actions following Monday’s match attracted further attention as he demonstrated his affection for the country he has called home since January 2023.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward kissed the crest on his Al-Nassr shirt before leading supporters in a post-match Viking clap.
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