The dream has to wait: Emotional GOAT Ronaldo reacts to Al Nassr's Champions League heartbreak

Cristiano Ronaldo’s pursuit of continental glory with Al-Nassr was put on hold after a dramatic and emotional exit from the AFC Champions League. 

The Saudi Arabian side crashed out of the tournament on Wednesday night following a 3-2 home defeat to Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the semi-finals, ending their hopes of reaching a first final since 1995.

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Despite entering the match as heavy favourites and dominating possession with 75 per cent and 21 shots, Al-Nassr could not overcome the resilient Japanese visitors. 

Goals from Sadio Mané and Ayman Yahya were not enough to overturn Kawasaki’s early advantage, with Tatsuya Ito, Yuto Ozeki, and Akihiro Ienaga all finding the net for the visitors.

The match’s closing moments were filled with tension and heartbreak. Ronaldo, who has been a talismanic figure for Al-Nassr since his arrival, had three golden opportunities to equalise in stoppage time-including a dramatic one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but failed to convert, sealing Al-Nassr’s elimination and a likely trophyless season.

Shortly after the final whistle, a visibly dejected Ronaldo took to social media to share a heartfelt message with fans and teammates:

“Sometimes the dream has to wait. I’m proud of this team and everything we gave on the pitch,” he stated on his official account on X. 

“Thank you to all the fans who believed in us and stood by us every step of the way. Your support means the world,” he added.

The 40-year-old Portuguese star, who has scored 97 goals in 108 appearances for Al-Nassr, praised his teammates for their effort and resilience, while also expressing gratitude to the supporters who have stood by the club throughout the campaign.

With their Champions League hopes dashed and elimination from the King’s Cup earlier in the season, Al-Nassr now trails Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Ittihad by eight points with just five fixtures remaining. 

The defeat to Kawasaki Frontale means Ronaldo’s wait for a major trophy in Saudi Arabia continues.

Despite the setback, Ronaldo’s message reflected determination and optimism, signalling his intent to keep pushing for success with Al-Nassr in future campaigns.

Kawasaki Frontale, meanwhile, advances to the AFC Champions League final, where they will face Al Ahli in Jeddah. For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, the dream is not over-but for now, it must wait.