CRIS CROSS
Cristiano Ronaldo ‘could face BAN as he is investigated by Saudi football chiefs’ over gesture after Messi taunts
The former Man Utd star is vying with an ex-Prem forward for the Saudi Pro League's golden boot
CRISTIANO RONALDO could be slapped with a ban by Saudi football chiefs after an alleged rude gesture he made in response to being taunted by Al-Shabab fans over the weekend.
The former Manchester United star, 39, was in action for Al-Nassr on Sunday.
5
5
5
5
Ronaldo and Co travelled to face Al-Shabab looking to keep their title hopes alive.
The Portuguese forward was the subject of Lionel Messi chants from opposition fans earlier this season.
And when Al-Shabab supporters sang the Argentine's name, Ronaldo looked to get the last laugh.
He opened the scoring in the 21st minute from the penalty spot, running to the corner flag and performing his trademark celebration.
Later in the topsy-turvy contest, Ronaldo couldn't help but make some gestures towards the crowd.
The animated ace could be seen frantically waving his arms towards home supporters.
And at one point he even cupped his ear in triumph before repeatedly thrusting his hand near his pelvis.
Ronaldo has drawn flak for the gesture, with local media now reporting the ultra conservative Saudi football federation has opened an investigation into the incident.
Most read in Football
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
This could lead to Ronaldo being suspended, meaning he may miss Al-Nassr's next match against Al-Hazem on Thursday.
Former Atletico Madrid star Yannick Carrasco equalised for Al-Shabab from the penalty spot on the stroke of half-time.
Cristiano Ronaldo throws runners-up medal into the crowd as former Premier League star wins player of the tournament
Talisca then restored Al-Nassr's advantage just seconds into the second-half.
Brazilian ace Carlos levelled once again for the home side on 66 minutes.
But Talisca struck again four minutes from time to seal victory for Ronaldo and Co.
Al-Nassr's win moved them onto 52 points from 21 games in the Saudi Pro League.
They are in second place, four points behind Ruben Neves' Al-Hilal, who also possess a game in hand.
Read More on The US Sun
Ronaldo is top scorer in the Saudi Pro League this season, having bagged 22 goals in 20 appearances.
He is three ahead of former Fulham ace Aleksandar Mitrovic, and seven clear of ex-Tottenham winger Georges-Kevin N'Koudou.
5