{
  "id": 7724242,
  "title": "Ange Postecoglou hits back at Cristiano Ronaldo's critics: ‘You’re watching a different game’",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/ange-postecoglou-hits-back-at-cristiano-ronaldos-critics-youre",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-16T06:27:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National Business",
    "slug": "the-national-business",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/sport/football/2026/09/16/ange-postecoglou-hits-back-at-cristiano-ronaldos-critics-youre-watching-a-different-game/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ange Postecoglou, manager of Al Nassr, defended Cristiano Ronaldo following Al Nassr's 4-0 defeat to Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite opener. Despite Ronaldo's recent struggles, Postecoglou insisted that the players are putting in their all and are top performers. The Saudi Pro League champions were strong favorites, but they were outplayed by the UAE champions, who led the match with a brilliant performance from Houssine and Soufiane Rahimi. Postecoglou criticized those who are quick to blame Ronaldo, stating that it's his responsibility to lead the team. He also pointed out the grueling fixture schedule that has left his players fatigued, particularly playing nine games in the hottest part of the season. Postecoglou admitted that he might be a bad coach, but he remains steadfast in his belief that his players are giving their best.",
  "summary": "Ange Postecoglou was forced to defend Cristiano Ronaldo after Al Nassr were trounced 4-0 by Al Ain . The Saudi Pro League champions travelled to the UAE as strong favourites ahead of their AFC Champions League Elite opener. They were soundly beaten, though, as the Rahimi brothers , Houssine and Soufiane, led a sparkling display by the UAE champions. After a bright start under Postecoglou’s tenure…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The National Business",
        "title": "Rahimi brothers honour late father by upstaging Cristiano Ronaldo on golden night for Al Ain",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/rahimi-brothers-honour-late-father-by-upstaging-cristiano-ronaldo-on",
        "published": "2026-09-16T05:57:53.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}