Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr FC has formally requested to relocate their upcoming AFC Champions League round of 16 match against Iran’s Esteghlal FC, per reports in Iran.
The Saudi Arabian club claims that the match, scheduled to take place in Tehran, does not meet “proper security standards.” However, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has rejected the request, confirming that the match will proceed as planned in Tehran.
Ronaldo and his Al Nassr teammates are set to land in Tehran early next week ahead of the highly anticipated fixture. The decision has sparked debate over security protocols in the region, but the AFC’s stance remains firm as the match draws nearer.