Al-Nassr miss Ronaldo as penalty-missing Sadio Mane fails to inspire

Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr played a Portuguese club today but were missing their Selecao talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, who is still on holiday, as they were held to a draw by a fourth-division side. 

The Faris Najd have begun their pre-season, and they faced Louletano DC, who ply their trade in the fourth division of the Portuguese football pyramid, in a preparatory friendly. 

Their hosts proved a formidable opponent, as they held the glamorously assembled squad to a draw. 

Due to his participation in the European Championship participation, albeit having ended disappointingly, Ronaldo is still on holiday, while his team have begun preparation for next season in earnest.

The Portuguese striker was the top scorer for Al-Nassr last season and even the Saudi Pro League at large, underscoring his clinical edge despite being at an advanced age. 

He was not available for selection to coach Luis Castro, but the team's second superstar, Sadio Mane, was well in contention. 

The Portuguese club drew first blood just before halftime; seven minutes after returning from the break, however, Mohammed Khalil pulled the Saudi Arabian’s level. 

Mane had the chance to hand Al-Nassr the lead from the penalty spot, but the Senegalese missed badly, reaching for the Portuguese skyline with his effort.