Ronaldo's Al-Nassr fixture proceeds under cloud of Riyadh airport strikes

KUALA LUMPUR - The AFC is monitoring security concerns in Riyadh before tonight's Asian Champions League Elite fixtures in the Saudi capital. Missile and drone strikes at King Khalid International Airport on Saturday and Sunday resulted in casualties, halted airport operations, and prompted travel advisories. Tonight's match features Al-Nassr against Neftchi at King Saud University Stadium, with Ronaldo hosting the Uzbek club at 9:15pm local time (2:15am Tuesday, Malaysia time).

AFC Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John stated that the body is monitoring the situation. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation has not yet announced any changes due to the strikes, and matches have proceeded as usual. Neftchi's team, who arrived before the disruptions, completed their pre-match briefings without alterations.

This situation poses logistical challenges for upcoming ACLE and ACL 2 matches that depend on commercial flights through Riyadh. The events also test Saudi Arabia's hosting plans for the Asian Cup and ACLE final later this year. While no Malaysians were affected in the airport strikes, the AFC advises travelers to stay vigilant, verify flight schedules, and follow local safety instructions.