Cristiano Ronaldo responds to Messi chants from fans

Cristiano Ronaldo was the target of some light-hearted mocking from opposing fans during Al-Nassr’s clash with Al Hilal on Friday.

The 39-year-old has enjoyed a prolific run in the Saudi Pro League since joining Al-Nassr, and has already netted nine times in all competitions for the Riyadh-based club this season.

However, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United star has repeatedly found himself targeted by chants of Lionel Messi’s name from supporters during his time in Saudi.

In one instance following Al-Nassr’s win over Al-Shabab in February Ronaldo responded by making an obscene gesture towards his pelvis that later saw him handed a one-match ban and fined 10,000 riyals ($2,081).

This time though, Ronaldo took the comments in good nature, responding only with a cheeky thumbs up during the 1-1 draw.

While taunts from the crowd proved unable to provoke Ronaldo’s ire, the same could not be said for the performance of the referee at Al-Awwal Park.

After Talisca gave Al-Nassr the lead in the opening minute, a combative clash played out between the two rivals with Ronaldo, Marcelo Brozovic and Sadio Mane all booked for the hosts in the first half.

As both sets of players returned to the tunnel for the interval Ronaldo made his feelings clear as he approached match official Felix Zwayer.

‘We receive three yellow cards. Al Hilal have zero.’ Ronaldo could be heard saying to the referee. ‘Be fair for both teams!’

Al-Nassr ultimately would fail to protect their early lead as former Lazio star Sergej Milinkovic-Savic levelled for the visitors in the closing stages to rescue a point for his side.

Following the game Ronaldo wrote on social media: ‘The battle is far from over. Thank you all for the support today!’

The result sees Ronaldo’s side continue their unbeaten start but they remain six points behind Al-Hilal after drawing four of their opening nine fixtures.