Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema has suggested that their upcoming Super Cup semi-final match against Al-Nassr should not be reduced to a one-on-one clash with Cristiano Ronaldo. He also noted that the best team will go to the final ahead of their fixture, which is all set to take place at the Hong Kong Stadium on Tuesday, August 19.
Al-Ittihad had abrilliant 2024-25 season, winning the Saudi Pro League title and King Cup of Champions. They are considered the favorites to win against Al-Nassr, as the latter struggled for consistency last season and ended up without any major trophy. However, Cristiano Ronaldo's side will be keen to turn the tables under the new manager Jorge Jesus.
Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo played with each other at Real Madrid between 2009 and 2018. The duo formed a dangerous partnership up front, helping Real Madrid win 15 trophies, consisting of four UEFA Champions League.
During the Al-Nassr pre-match press conference, Benzema was questioned about playing against Cristiano Ronaldo, to which he responded:
"The upcoming match shouldn't be reduced to a one-on-one battle with Cristiano Ronaldo. I played with Ronaldo before, and he's a fantastic player, but tomorrow's match is Al-Ittihad vs. Al-Nassr, and the best will win."
The winner between Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad will face the victor of Al-Ahli and Al-Qadarsiya in the Saudi Super Cup final on Saturday, August 23.
Cristiano Ronaldo to play in India
Cristiano Ronaldo could face an Indian club for the first time in his career, with his team Al Nassr drawn in the same AFC Champions League Two group as FC Goa. The group stage draw, held on August 15, placed the Saudi side in Group D alongside Goa, Iraq’s Al Zawra’a, and Tajikistan’s FC Istiklol.
This draw raised hopes among fans of seeing the Portuguese star play in India during the 2025-26 season. However, Ronaldo's outing in India is not guaranteed, with reports suggesting his contract includes conditions on away travel for the tournament. The No. 7 can opt out of away matches as per reports.
For 40-year-old Ronaldo, the new campaign is another shot at the Saudi Pro League title. The trophy has eluded him since joining Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving Manchester United.