Jorge Jesus has explained why he decided to leave Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench during Al-Nassr's Saudi King Cup of Champions round of 32 clash with Jeddah on Tuesday. In Ronaldo's absence, his compatriot Joao Felix starred for Al-Nassr as the Saudi giants beat Jeddah 4-0. Felix contributed with a goal and an assist to continue his dream start to life in Saudi Arabia.
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Felix shines in Ronaldo's absence
It seems Felix has finally revived his career and recovered his long-lost form since moving to Saudi Arabia from Chelsea in the summer, as he has already scored seven goals across all competitions for Al-Nassr and provided two assists. On Tuesday, Felix spearheaded Al-Nassr's attack in their thumping win over Jeddah with two more goal contributions.
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Ronaldo left on the bench
Ronaldo has four goals to his name in the 2025-26 campaign to date and was fresh from scoring a brace in Al-Nassr's 5-1 win over Al-Riyadh last Saturday. Despite his impressive form, Jesus opted not to use the 40-year-old in the cup clash as he remained rooted to the bench.
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Jesus explains Ronaldo's absence
Speaking to reporters after the match, the Al-Nassr boss said: "I was looking to maintain his fitness and prepare for the upcoming matches in the Saudi Pro League."
Jesus also spoke highly of his team's dominating gameplay, as he added: "Jeddah was good at times, but no team can confront Al-Nassr's attack."
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Ronaldo ready for Al-Ittihad clash
After a well-earned rest, Ronaldo will likely feature in Jorge Jesus' starting lineup again in a crucial Saudi Pro League encounter against reigning champions Al-Ittihad on Saturday. Al-Nassr are top of the table ahead of Al-Ittihad on goal difference after three games.
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