Jorge Jesus has explained why he decided to leave Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench during Al-Nassr's Saudi King Cup of Champions round of 32 clash with Jeddah on Tuesday. In Ronaldo's absence, his compatriot Joao Felix starred for Al-Nassr as the Saudi giants beat Jeddah 4-0. Felix contributed with a goal and an assist to continue his dream start to life in Saudi Arabia

Felix shines in Ronaldo's absence

It seems Felix has finally revived his career and recovered his long-lost form since moving to Saudi Arabia from Chelsea in the summer, as he has already scored seven goals across all competitions for Al-Nassr and provided two assists. On Tuesday, Felix spearheaded Al-Nassr's attack in their thumping win over Jeddah with two more goal contributions.

Ronaldo left on the bench

Ronaldo has four goals to his name in the 2025-26 campaign to date and was fresh from scoring a brace in Al-Nassr's 5-1 win over Al-Riyadh last Saturday. Despite his impressive form, Jesus opted not to use the 40-year-old in the cup clash as he remained rooted to the bench.

Jesus explains Ronaldo's absence

Speaking to reporters after the match, the Al-Nassr boss said: "I was looking to maintain his fitness and prepare for the upcoming matches in the Saudi Pro League."

Jesus also spoke highly of his team's dominating gameplay, as he added: "Jeddah was good at times, but no team can confront Al-Nassr's attack."

Ronaldo ready for Al-Ittihad clash

After a well-earned rest, Ronaldo will likely feature in Jorge Jesus' starting lineup again in a crucial Saudi Pro League encounter against reigning champions Al-Ittihad on Saturday. Al-Nassr are top of the table ahead of Al-Ittihad on goal difference after three games. (GOAL)