Persepolis goalie sends touching message to Ronaldo after 'potential' injury during crucial game

Alireza Beiranvand conveyed a thoughtful message to Cristiano Ronaldo following their collision on Monday evening during the AFC Champions League clash between Persepolis and Al-Nassr.

The Iranian goalkeeper and the Portuguese veteran forward found themselves in a literal face-to-face encounter during the penultimate round of games in Asia's premier club competition.

Ronaldo, having scored in three consecutive games in the continental tournament, aimed to extend his scoring streak and aid the Knights of Najd in maintaining their flawless record.

However, the home side's plans were disrupted by an early red card to Ali Lajami, altering the course of the match in favour of the Iranian side.

Persepolis launched continuous attacks against Al-Nassr's defence, coming closest to a goal early in the second half, only for their effort to be rightly disallowed for offside.

Despite relentless pressure, coach Luis Castro's men exhibited resilience as the game ended in goalless draw and saw Al-Nassr secure their spot in the knockout phase of the AFC CL.

Ronaldo potentially injured vs Persepolis

Nevertheless, the achievement was overshadowed by an apparent injury to the Portuguese skipper.

In an attempt to win an aerial challenge, Ronaldo and Beiranvand collided mid-air, resulting in the former bearing the brunt of the impact.

Initially attempting to shake off the discomfort, Ronaldo persevered for 77 minutes before the pain forced his substitution.

Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the Al-Nasr match against Persepolis due to injury ❌????

⚡The match ended 0:0

????Al nassr had a red card ???? pic.twitter.com/UEOu0aIu8J

— Ivan Musaayi Muto 277 (@ivanmusaayimuto) November 27, 2023

Beiranvand took to Instagram to show concern for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner after their collision.

"I hope no problem has happened to you," he wrote, as cited by The Nassr Zone.

Meanwhile, Castro gave reporters a fitness update on his superstar after the game, as quoted by GOAL:

"The medical team is studying the injury and will do everything to make sure he [Ronaldo] is ready for the next game."

Alireza Beiranvand (Persepolis GK) On IG:

“I hope no problem has happened to you” pic.twitter.com/yCy9ysy2Iz

— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) November 27, 2023