Are Ronaldo’s powers finally at an end?

Titles with Al Nassr continue to elude Cristiano Ronaldo, who on Wednesday saw his dream of winning the Asian Champions League come to an end after being eliminated by Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. The Japanese club held strong until the final whistle, fending off relentless attacks led by the Portuguese star, who now faces yet another setback at club level.

Continental titles remain the one major gap in CR7’s otherwise illustrious career. Since leaving Real Madrid — where he won four Champions League titles — Ronaldo has been unable to rediscover the same European or international success.

Neither Juventus, Manchester United, nor now Al Nassr have been able to deliver the continental glory he craves. This season’s Asian Champions League was seen as a potential path to redemption, especially following another disappointing campaign in the Saudi Pro League, where the title is once again out of reach.

In total, Ronaldo has now faced international disappointment eight times, missing out on triumphs in the Champions League, Europa League, and AFC Champions League — the latest being with Al Nassr.

Cristiano: still short of the goal

Ronaldo had taken a significant step forward with Al Nassr. For the first time in seven years, he reached the semi-finals of an international competition — a feat he hadn’t achieved since his Real Madrid days. Yet once again, the outcome fell short of expectations.

With Juventus, he was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Ajax, and in the round of 16 by Lyon and Porto. At Manchester United, he was knocked out at the same stage by Atlético de Madrid.

Now with Al Nassr, it has been Shabab Al-Ahli, Al Ain, and Kawasaki who have dashed his hopes, keeping the Portuguese icon waiting — at least until next season.

Related stories

NFL

Heisman finalist retires before playing a single NFL game

Champions League

Lamine Yamal ends the 'Messi curse'

Known for his unmatched competitiveness in the latter stages of tournaments, Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for most goals scored in UEFA Champions League semi-finals, with 13 goals. He hoped to add to that tally with Al Nassr, but the figure remains unchanged — a reminder that even legends must sometimes pause in their pursuit of greatness.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.