Portugal’s football federation has publicly celebrated Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest goal for Al Nassr, despite suspending the veteran forward just two days before his return to club action.
The Portuguese FA (FPF) took to social media on Monday to acknowledge Ronaldo’s contribution in Al Nassr’s 3-1 victory over Neftchi Fergana in the Asian Champions League Elite, sharing a photograph of the 41-year-old in Portugal’s national team shirt.
“Ronaldo scores again for Al Nassr.”
The post came amid an unresolved disciplinary situation involving the five-time Ballon d’Or winner and the national team, creating a striking contrast between the federation’s public recognition of his achievements and the punishment imposed on him.
Ronaldo started Monday’s match and found the net to register the 981st goal of his professional career, moving another step closer to the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward also reacted to Al Nassr’s victory on Instagram, emphasising the importance of the result as the Saudi Arabian club continued its campaign.
“Important win tonight. We keep building.”
The match marked Ronaldo’s second appearance for Al Nassr since his controversial departure from Portugal’s national team camp during the recent international window.
His exit followed a reported disagreement with new Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over his limited playing time in the Nations League, a situation that subsequently triggered disciplinary action from the FPF.
Ronaldo later apologised to his international teammates and acknowledged that he was prepared to accept the consequences of his actions.
In a statement, the veteran striker also reaffirmed his commitment to Portugal, making it clear that the dispute had not diminished his desire to continue representing his country.
However, the federation has yet to announce a final punishment, leaving questions over the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
The FPF has also indicated that details of the investigation will remain confidential until the process has been completed.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his international future, Ronaldo’s performance for Al Nassr demonstrated that he remains a central figure at club level.
His latest goal added to an extraordinary career tally that has spanned Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al Nassr and the Portugal national team.
At 41, the forward continues to chase the 1,000-goal milestone while competing in Saudi Arabia’s domestic and continental competitions.
The Portugal FA’s decision to acknowledge his latest achievement has also drawn attention to the distinction between Ronaldo’s ongoing contribution on the pitch and the unresolved disciplinary matter away from it.
For now, the veteran captain’s immediate focus appears to be on delivering results for Al Nassr, while the football world awaits the federation’s final decision on his international suspension.
With 19 goals remaining before he reaches the 1,000-goal landmark, every appearance is becoming another significant chapter in Ronaldo’s pursuit of one of football’s most extraordinary individual milestones.
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