Fri May 16 17:20:00 UTC 2025: **Al Nassr Faces Al Taawoun Without Ronaldo Amid Fitness Concerns**

**RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – May 16, 2025, 08:41 AM EDT** – Al Nassr is set to clash with Al Taawoun in a crucial Saudi Pro League match today, but will be without their star player, Cristiano Ronaldo. Head coach Stefano Pioli has reportedly excluded Ronaldo and Mohammed Simakan from the squad due to fitness issues, prioritizing their recovery for the remaining fixtures of the season.

While Al Nassr is no longer in the running for the league title, securing a strong finish remains a key objective. The team currently sits in fourth place, and a victory against Al Taawoun would bolster their position in the standings.

Without Ronaldo, Al Nassr will look to Sadio Mane and Anderson Talisca to spearhead their attack. Mane, fresh off a four-goal performance in a recent match, will be a crucial figure in filling the void left by Ronaldo’s absence. The starting lineup includes Bento in goal, with Boushal, Al-Ghannam, Alawjami, and Al-Fatil forming the defense. The midfield will feature Al-Sulaihem, Otavio, Ahmed, and Brozovic, with Mane and Duran leading the attack.

Al Taawoun will undoubtedly aim to capitalize on Ronaldo’s absence, adding pressure to Al Nassr to perform without their talisman. The match promises to be a challenging test for Pioli’s squad as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

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