Cristiano Ronaldo receives an enthusiastic reception in Hong Kong, manageably avoiding the Messi controversy
In the bustling city of Hong Kong, the Saudi Super Cup matches this year saw a significant contrast in fan reactions for two footballing legends - Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo, donning his trademark number seven shirt, was met with a hero's welcome. Fans waited hours to catch a glimpse of him, cheering his appearances at the museum and stadium. The local fans appeared emotionally connected, with Ronaldo himself expressing gratitude about their interest. His presence was highly appreciated, and he even got an assist in a 2-1 victory for his team, Al Nassr, against Al Ittihad.
Every time Ronaldo touched the ball during the game, cheers echoed through the stadium. He had two opportunities to score before the break but was denied both times. However, he set up the winning goal for Joao Felix, who was recently signed from Chelsea.
In stark contrast, Messi's recent involvement in Hong Kong was less positively received. Fans were disappointed last year when he did not actually play despite expectations, leading to criticism. While Messi did pack the stadium during warm-up events this year, his actual participation in finals or matches in Hong Kong did not create the same level of excitement or fan support as Ronaldo's appearance.
Messi's absence from the friendly match in Hong Kong drew boos and calls for refunds from fans. Some nationalist politicians and outlets in China interpreted Messi's absence and subsequent appearance at a similar match in Japan as a snub. Messi claimed he was injured, but this did not stop a fallout that resulted in China cancelling two friendly matches featuring Argentina.
The match took place on a sweltering and damp evening in southern China. Several pitch invaders unsuccessfully tried to reach Ronaldo during the game, and two more young fans invaded the pitch after the final whistle, making a beeline for Ronaldo. They were wrestled to the ground.
Al Ittihad's forward is French veteran Karim Benzema. Sadio Mane was sent off after a VAR review, and Al Ittihad equalized shortly after.
In summary, Ronaldo's Hong Kong appearances garnered more positive and tangible fan reactions in stadium and related events than Messi's. While Messi's absence and subsequent controversy continue to cast a shadow over his visits to the city, Ronaldo's charisma and on-field performance have left a lasting impression on the fans in Hong Kong.
Read also:
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
