Cristiano Ronaldo issues message to team-mates as Al-Nassr get narrow win in King's Cup without their star player

Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a congratulatory message to his Al-Nassr team-mates after they beat Al-Hazem 2-1 in the King Cup of Champions.

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Ronaldo absent from Al-Nassr winNawaf Boushal scored last-minute winnerRonaldo sends congratulationsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Al-Nassr played second-tier Al-Hazem in the King's Cup and won 2-1, with Nawaf Boushal's last-minute winner following Sadio Mane's strike in first-half injury time. Ronaldo was not in the squad, as coach Stefano Pioli rotated his side.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Pioli opted to rest Ronaldo ahead of last Friday's clash against Al-Wehda, and their AFC Champions League tie against Al Rayyan. Without him, Al-Nassr were not exactly comfortable, but he was pleased to see his side progress, as he continues to wait for his first Saudi Arabian trophy.

WHAT RONALDO SAID

Ronaldo posted on Instagram: "Got the win in the King's Cup. Well done!"

@cristiano InstagramGetty Images SportWHAT NEXT?

Al-Nassr play Al-Wehda on Friday, then face Al Rayyan in the AFC Champions League on Monday. Ronaldo is likely to play a part in both fixtures.