Dubai hosts Al Nassr vs Al Wasl this Sunday with Cristiano Ronaldo a possible appearance after recent return from injury
Cristiano Ronaldo could be heading to Dubai this weekend, but fans might have to wait and see if he actually steps onto the pitch.
Al Nassr face Al Wasl on Sunday in the first leg of the AFC Champions League Two quarter finals, with kick-off set for 6pm at Zabeel Stadium. It is a fixture that has been a long time coming. The Asian Football Confederation pushed the tie back from its original March dates due to regional tensions, and now it finally lands in Dubai.
The big question is simple. Will Ronaldo play?
According to Gulf News, there is reason to hope. The Portuguese forward has hit the ground running since returning from injury, scoring three goals in his last two games. He looks sharp, involved and, importantly, hungry for minutes.
But Al Nassr have handled him carefully in this competition. He has only featured once in the AFC Champions League Two this season, with the club often choosing to rest him and focus on their Saudi Pro League title push.
That could be changing. With the league entering a crucial stretch and Ronaldo only recently back, game time matters. This match offers a chance to build rhythm without the full pressure of a domestic title decider. It makes his potential appearance feel more likely, even if nothing is confirmed.
If he does play, expect a full house and a loud one at that.
And if he does not, it is not exactly a quiet backup plan. Al Nassr still arrive with serious firepower. João Félix brings flair and unpredictability, while Sadio Mané offers pace, experience and that knack for big moments.
Either way, this is not one to ignore. Dubai gets a proper football night, with or without its biggest name.
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