Cristiano Ronaldo was forced off the field after a neck injury prevented him from playing the whole ninety minutes for Al-Nassr in their most recent AFC Champions League match.

WHAT HAPPENED?

With his performance on the field, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner made sure his Saudi Arabian team advanced to the next stage of continental play. They advance as the champions of Group E after a scoreless draw with Persepolis.

WHAT CASTRO SAID ABOUT RONALDO

Al-Nassr fans and the Portuguese community worldwide have expressed some anxiety at Ronaldo’s need to be substituted in the 78th minute, but head coach Luis Castro is optimistic that the venerable 38-year-old will be fit for the team’s next match. “The medical team is studying the injury and will do everything to make sure he is ready for the next game,” he said reporters while providing a fitness update.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ronaldo received further accolades as he was playing against Persepolis. At one point, the all-time great advised the match referee to overturn a judgment that had resulted in his being given a penalty. CR7 informed the referees that he had not been fouled and that there was no need to put up a spot-kick.

WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO & AL-NASSR?

On Friday, Al-Nassr will return to Saudi Pro League action against Al-Hilal, who are currently atop the table. Ronaldo, who has scored 24 goals in 25 games across all competitions this season, is aiming to be fit to play a big role in that title-chasing match.