Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr saw their Asian Champions League fixture postponed for an hour on Monday after the Saudi-led military coalition reported intercepting a missile launched by the Houthis toward Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia has faced several recent attacks attributed to the Iran-backed group, targeting oil installations, tankers and transport centres, including deadly strikes near Riyadh’s international airport.
Only a small number of supporters were present at Alawwal Park for the match against Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana, originally due to begin at 9.15pm local time.
An announcement inside the stadium assured spectators that the venue was secure and the game would proceed, while asking them to stay seated. The television broadcaster later confirmed that kick-off had been pushed back by one hour.
Reports of explosions in Riyadh emerged shortly beforehand. Residents also received a phone warning saying: “The area is facing a hostile aerial threat. Remain calm and stay at home or in another secure location, keep away from doors and windows, and continue following civil defence guidance.”
The coalition later stated on X that it had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis.
The disruption appeared to have little impact on Ronaldo, who netted the 981st goal of his career shortly before half-time as the Saudi Arabian champions claimed a 3-1 victory.
The 41-year-old had been provisionally suspended by Portugal on Saturday after leaving the national team during the international break.
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