Ronaldo is out of the starting lineup for Al-Nassr's first match in the AFC Champions League 2! | OneFootball

Al-Nassr without their Portuguese captain.

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The stage is set at Al-Nassr's home ground for a new continental adventure, yet the air is tinged with a palpable sense of absence.

As the team embarks on its AFC Champions League 2 campaign against Tajikistan's Istiklol Dushanbe, the team sheet delivered a stunning revelation: the name of their iconic captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, was conspicuously missing from the roster, confirming he would play no part in the opening fixture.

The strategic squad rotation didn't end there, with notable talents like Mané and Brozović also finding themselves among the substitutes.

Amidst this reshuffle, the weight of expectation fell upon the shoulders of João Félix, who emerged as the sole marquee star to secure a spot in the starting eleven. This calculated move comes as the Saudi Pro League leaders, fresh off a perfect start to their domestic season, balance their quest for glory on multiple fronts.