Friendly Mach between PSG and Al-Nassr ended with (0-0)

Cristiano Ronaldo won hearts in Japan before kick-off and then helped Al-Nassr to a creditable 0-0 draw against Paris Saint-Germain in Osaka in a Tuesday exhibition.

In the lead-up to the clash at the Nagai Stadium, the 38-year-old had spoken a little of the language and played with local kids, creating two assists along the way.

The French champions provided tougher opposition but it was still an enjoyable occasion for all involved. Fans got a look at one of the legends of the game who showed off some of his skills, while Al-Nassr confirmed that they are a club of international stature as they moved their pre-season preparations up another level.

Marcelo Brozovic, the new Al-Nassr player, made a strong show and almost scored after he penetrated from the middle of the field, but he hit a ball that was pushed away by the defense. Carlos Soler of PSG tried an ambitious free-kick from distance in just the second minute of the match, but Al-Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Alaqidi was equal to the attempt Noha Lemina broke in behind for PSG 20 minutes later but saw his effort skew wide of the near post. The second half was broken up by a slew of substitutions by both sides, with Ronaldo departing after 66 minutes. Both teams prepare for the upcoming season and are trying to settle their squad before the league matches start. Some of the new signings featured for both teams.

Star striker Lautaro Martinez has been persuaded to stay, though, and will captain the Nerazzurri this year, while Marcus Thuram, Davide Frattesi and Juan Cuadrado represent interesting arrivals.

All three should feature regularly over the coming weeks, as Inter - who recently beat Lugano 3-0 and thumped 10 past Pergolettese in recent training-ground warm-ups - prepare for their Serie A opener against Monza.

Both teams pushed forward, with Al-Nassr’s new fullback Alex Telles coming off the bench, as they tried to give fans a goal to celebrate. It did not quite happen but there were plenty of positives for coach Castro to take.

After two heavy defeats, Al-Nassr gave a strong European team a good game. The defence was organized and looked fairly comfortable in possession, Ronaldo enjoyed himself and the new midfielders Fofana and Brozovic looked very settled and composed.

Brozovic will be looking forward to Thursday when the Yellows conclude their Japan visit with a game against Italian powerhouse — and his former club — Inter Milan in the same stadium.

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Sarah H

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