Controversy has erupted in Saudi Arabia. This weekend, the country's Court of Arbitration for Sport awarded Al-Nassr three points from their defeat to Al-Orubah due to the latter fielding an ineligible player, a decision that could see Michel's Al-Qadsiah side, featuring Nacho Fernandez, miss out – at least for now – on a place in the AFC Champions League.
Despite an inconsistent season, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr have moved a step closer to qualifying for the next AFC Champions League, following a contentious decision that has sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League.
This weekend, the Riyadh-based club were awarded three points by the Saudi Court of Arbitration for Sport. The controversy stems from Al-Nassr's 2-1 defeat to Al-Orubah on 28 February, a match in which Ronaldo and Jhon Duran started up front.
Following the loss, Al-Nassr's board lodged an appeal, claiming that Al-Orubah goalkeeper Rafi Al-Ruwaili had been ineligible to play. Al-Ruwaili, whose team also includes Kurt Zouma and Cristian Tello, was found to be in breach of Saudi Pro League regulations, which prohibit professional footballers from holding secondary employment.
Al-Ruwaili reportedly has a second job. After months of deliberation, the Saudi Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in Al-Nassr's favour, awarding them a 3-0 victory and the crucial three points.
As a result, Stefano Pioli's side now sit third in the table with 70 points, two ahead of Michel's Al-Qadsiah, which features players such as Nacho Fernandez, Iker Almena and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
This would currently secure Al-Nassr a place in the AFC Champions League – though a significant caveat remains. Everything will hinge on what happens on Friday 30 May, when Al-Qadsiah face Al-Ittihad, the reigning league champions, in the Saudi King's Cup final.
Should Michel's side overcome Karim Benzema's Al-Ittihad, the federation will award them the extra Champions League berth. If they fall short, the spot will go to the third-placed team – currently Al-Nassr – with one league match remaining.