Ronaldo sent off: referee's report mentions 'shameful' conduct

The dramatic semifinal of the Saudi Super Cup between Jorge Jesus' Al Hilal and Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr ended with Al Hilal securing a place in the final following a 2-1 victory, a match that will be remembered not only for its competitive spirit but also for the controversy involving one of football's biggest stars.

Cristiano Ronaldo was sent off in the 86th minute after getting entangled with Al Hilal's Al Bulaihi, an incident that saw the Portuguese international receiving a red card for unsportsmanlike behavior. The altercation, which prevented a quick restart of the game, led to significant discussions in the aftermath, especially with referee Mohammed Al Huwaish's report citing Ronaldo's use of his elbow with "excessive force" as "shameful" conduct.

This controversial moment has implications for Ronaldo, who, based on the league's regulations, might face a suspension of at least two games in addition to a possible fine. The match itself saw goals from Salem Al Dawsari and Brazilian star Malcom for Al Hilal, showcasing the team's ability to perform under pressure and secure results. Al Nassr, despite being a man down and facing a challenging scenario, managed to score a late goal through Sadio Mané, although it wasn't enough to change the outcome of the match.

The fallout from Ronaldo's red card is significant, shining a spotlight on the expectations and scrutiny that high-profile players face in the Saudi Professional League. As Al Hilal looks forward to the final, the attention will also be on Al Nassr's response to this setback and how the potential absence of their star player, due to suspension, might affect their upcoming performances.

This event adds a dramatic layer to the competition, highlighting the intense rivalries and the unpredictable nature of football where moments of passion can swiftly alter the course of a game and have lasting effects on a team's journey and a player's standing in the sport.