Cristiano Ronaldo missed Al Nassr's key Champions League clash, sparking speculation. Coach Stefano Pioli has now explained why.

Amid growing speculation on social media about Cristiano Ronaldo's presence in Iran for Al Nassr's AFC Champions League clash against Esteghlal, head coach Stefano Pioli addressed whether the Portuguese star will be available for the match.

Esteghlal and Al Nassr played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their AFC Champions League Elite Round of 16 match at the Azadi Sports Complex on Monday. It was a tale of two halves, as both teams had their fair share of chances but failed to convert any into a goal.

Al-Nassr, without Cristiano Ronaldo, drew 0-0 at Esteghlal in the first leg of their AFC Champions League Elite last 16 clash

Al Nassr fans have been reacting on social media after watching Jhon Duran's performance against Esteghlal FC. On Monday evening, Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr were in AFC Champions League action as they took on Iranian outfit Esteghlal in the first leg of the round of 16.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr finished third in their group (B) in the league phase, accumulating 17 points. Esteghlal FC, also in the same group as Al Nassr, finished sixth with nine points

Jhon Duran hit a post and was thwarted by an inspired goalkeeping display as Al Nassr drew 0-0 in Iran without Cristiano Ronaldo.

Abdullah Al-Yazidi earned Qatar's Al-Sadd a 1-1 draw with Al-Wasl in Dubai in the first leg of their Asian Champions League Elite last 16 clash on Monday as Al-Nassr, missing Cristiano Ronaldo, were held to a 0-0 draw by Iran's Esteghlal in Tehran.

Cristiano Ronaldo was absent as Al-Nassr and Esteghlal played to a 0-0 draw in the AFC Champions League Elite second round. Despite Jhon Duran's efforts and Sadio Mane's opportunities, Esteghlal's goalkeeper kept a clean sheet.