The former Celtic boss is the toast of the Middle East after his Al-Qadsiah side stunned a title favourite
Beaming Brendan Rodgers is basking in global acclaim after forcing Ronaldo into retreat and firing Al-Qadsiah towards the Saudi title mix.
The former Celtic boss was all smiles before the game as he warmly embraced the global superstar ahead of his side’s dominant 2-1 win away to Al-Nassr.
And Rodgers revealed the Saudi giants’ creaking backline and their pressing, or lack thereof, led by a 41-year-old in the twilight of his career, were on his hitlist to mercilessly expose.
Al-Qadsiah are soaring under the Irishman’s watch, while Al Nassr are crumbling with no wins in their last three Saudi Pro League games.
They are now four points adrift of Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal with Rodgers and Co on the charge and now only four points off second place.
Ronaldo netted a consolation penalty, however, he was panned for his display as Al-Qadsiah dominated their rivals and squeezed them into error after error across the pitch.
And Rodgers, earning widespread praise across the Kingdom after the win, admits forcing the veteran striker and Joao Felix to stop their high-speed style was all part of the plan.
Speaking after the landmark win, Rodgers said: “My philosophy is based on attacking intensity, and I like my team to attack with balance. We could have scored more than two goals, and we were unlucky with the penalty.
“We analysed Al-Nassr’s weaknesses, particularly their defensive organisation and pressing. We tried to force them to play long balls, and when they find time to pass, they have talented players who can do so.
“A fantastic win for us, and we dedicate this victory to all our fans and everyone in Al-Khobar. We played for a great club, against Al-Nassr, with great fighting spirit and determination. This is a special night for everyone.
Brendan Rodgers in Saudi Arabia(Image: Al-Qadsiah )
Ronaldo was target No.1 for vocal Al-Nassr fans who are now weighing up the prospect of not winning the title in all four of Ronaldo’s years in the Middle East.
Posting on X amid a fervent backlash, the Real Madrid and Man Utd hero said: “This fight isn’t over. We keep working and we will rise together!”
If Al-Hilal win next week then that leaves Ronaldo and Co in a seven-point hole in the race for the title.
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