Cristiano Ronaldo ‘focused on the job ahead’ after more Lionel Messi taunts & angry reaction to latest Al-Nassr defeat

The Portuguese superstar cut a frustrated figure after suffering a 2-0 defeat against Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Hilal in the Riyadh Cup. He reacted to jibes from the crowd during that contest, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner seemingly unable to escape eternal rival Messi and the Argentine’s loyal legion of followers.

Ronaldo also courted controversy when heading down the tunnel afterwards, as he rubbed a scarf thrown in his direction against his crotch before tossing it back towards the stands. The 39-year-old is a born winner and has never taken defeat well.

He is, however, someone that can keep personal focus locked on the future and quickly forget about events of the past. It is that mindset which has taken him to the very top of the game and allowed remarkable longevity to be enjoyed. He is now “focused” on upcoming fixtures after returning to the training field.

Having shaken off an injury that prevented him from lining up against Messi in a recent friendly date with MLS side Inter Miami, Ronaldo is readying himself for a return to competitive action after a mid-season break. Al-Nassr have the first leg of an AFC Champions League last-16 showdown with Al Feiha to look forward to on Wednesday.