Ronaldo's comeback hinges on Saturday clash as SPL eyes new season

Cristiano Ronaldo will line up for Al Nassr on Saturday, August 15, when the Saudi club hosts Al Fateh at Al Awwal Park for Matchday 1 of the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season, marking his first competitive appearance since the 2026 World Cup. The 41‑year‑old Portuguese forward remains a central figure for both Al Nassr and the Portugal national team, despite missing every preseason friendly this summer.

Ronaldo’s ambition to claim the 2026 World Cup with Portugal has already begun, with the national side currently positioned in the Round of 32 of the tournament. His presence continues to draw global attention, and the question of when he will take the field again dominates headlines.

The forward has not featured in any of Al Nassr’s preseason matches, leaving fans uncertain about his match fitness ahead of the Saudi Pro League opener. His first club appearance is therefore set for the Saturday clash at Al Awwal Park.

Portugal’s post‑World Cup programme starts on Thursday, September 24, when the Portuguese side hosts Wales for Matchday 1 of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. This marks the beginning of the national team’s 2026‑27 international campaign.

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Ronaldo’s last World Cup outing came on July 6, when Spain eliminated the Selecao in the Round of 16 with a 1‑0 victory. That match was his final appearance in the tournament before the new season.

In the 2025‑26 campaign, Ronaldo recorded 30 goals and four assists in 37 games for Al Nassr, added five goals in five World Cup qualifiers and three goals in the 2026 World Cup for Portugal, and reached a career tally of 976 goals.

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After his spectacular bicycle‑kick against Al Khaleej, Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s mid‑week AFC Champions League Two match, initiating a 24‑day spell without competitive action caused by the FIFA competition schedule.

From December 1 to 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium. Several Saudi Pro League players participated, and clubs including Al Nassr could not meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.