Cristiano Ronaldo red carded for elbowing opponent during Saudi Super Cup defeat

Ronaldo appeared to elbow and then stamp on his opponent, sparking a brawl on the pitch

Al-Hilal's Ali Al-Bulaihi fell to the ground after being elbowed by Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo received a red card for elbowing an opponent during Al-Nassr’s match against Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal, leading to his team's defeat.

The incident occurred late in Monday’s game in Abu Dhabi when Ronaldo clashed with Al-Hilal’s Ali Al-Bulayhi during second-half stoppage time. He was shown a straight red card for thrusting his elbow at Al-Bulayhi’s chest and throat, followed by what appeared to be a gesture towards the referee.

Ronaldo was given a straight red card for violent conduct as Al-Nassr lost in the Saudi Super Cup semi-finals

Despite Sadio Mané scoring for Al-Nassr after Ronaldo’s dismissal, earlier goals from Salem Al-Dawsari and Malcom secured a 2-1 victory for Al-Hilal, marking their 33rd consecutive win under manager Jorge Jesus.

Otávio's goal was disallowed for offside before Al-Dawsari opened the scoring in the 61st minute. Malcom added the second with a header later in the half.

Footage shows Ronaldo raising his fist towards the referee after his red card late on

This incident adds to Ronaldo's disciplinary record in Saudi Arabia, as earlier this year, he was suspended and fined for a gesture made during a Saudi Pro League match.

His outburst sparked a brawl between the two sets of players during thematch between Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal

The defeat likely means Ronaldo and Al-Nassr will end the season trophyless, as they are also out of contention in the Asian Champions League and trail Al-Hilal by 12 points in the SPL standings.

Al-Hilal advances to face Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup final on Thursday in Abu Dhabi.

Earlier in the game Ronaldo was booked following protests over a disallowed Al-Nassr goal

Ronaldo left the pitch incensed over the decision as Al-Nassr crashed out of the cup