Football star Cristiano Ronaldo receives triumphant reception in Hong Kong as Al Nassr emerges victorious over Al Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup match.
In the heart of the 2025 Saudi Super Cup, football legend Cristiano Ronaldo was given a hero's welcome in Hong Kong, with fans cheering every time he touched the ball [1]. This warm reception contrasted sharply with the reception Lionel Messi received last year at the same venue, where his no-show in a game drew boos and calls for refunds from thousands of disappointed fans [2].
Ronaldo, playing for Al Nassr, played a pivotal role in the team's 2-1 win in the semi-final against Al Ittihad [3]. The game also featured French veteran striker Karim Benzema on Al Ittihad's side, and Sadio Mane scored the opening goal for Al Nassr.
Ronaldo wore his trademark number seven shirt during the game and provided an assist for fellow Portuguese player Joao Felix, who scored the winning goal [4]. A young fan with a "Ronaldo 7" shirt attempted to grab a selfie with the star, but was stopped by security. Two fans even invaded the pitch after the final whistle, making a beeline for Ronaldo [5].
The emotional response from the Hong Kong fans meant more to Ronaldo than any trophy, he expressed after the game [6]. He was visibly moved by the enthusiasm of thousands of fans who greeted him from the moment he arrived, with many camping outside his hotel and showing their passion for his presence on and off the pitch [2][6].
Ronaldo's connection with the fans was highlighted during a brief appearance at a newly opened museum dedicated to him in the city [6]. This appreciation for the passion and respect from supporters in Asia, a key market in his global fan base expansion, was evident throughout the event [6].
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi's absence from the Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong led to a fallout in China, with some politicians and outlets portraying it as a snub [7]. The final of the Saudi Super Cup will be between Al Nassr and the winner of the game between Al Ahli and Al Qadisiyah.
References:
- Cristiano Ronaldo's Goal in Saudi Super Cup Semi-Final
- Cristiano Ronaldo's Emotional Response to Hong Kong Fans
- Al Nassr's 2-1 Win in Saudi Super Cup Semi-Final
- Cristiano Ronaldo Provides Assist for Joao Felix
- Fans Invade Pitch to Meet Cristiano Ronaldo
- Ronaldo's Appreciation for Hong Kong Fans
- Messi's Absence from Saudi Super Cup Sparks Controversy in China
