Angelos Postecoglou came to Cristiano Ronaldo’s defense following Al Nasr’s heavy defeat by Al Ain, responding to a reporter who had strongly criticized the Portuguese superstar.

The Greek-Australian coach took full responsibility for his team’s performance and defended the 41-year-old forward, emphasizing that he continues to be an example to everyone.

“Cristiano has already scored three goals, even though he had limited time to prepare. This isn’t the players’ fault. They give their all; they’re top-class players with outstanding character. The responsibility is mine.

You shouldn’t say something like that about someone who continues to be a role model for everyone. You have to be careful when you say things like that about people who have built a career and made every sacrifice to keep playing. You can judge me—no problem.

“Hasn’t he scored in the last three games? Didn’t he have chances today? Didn’t he do anything? You must have watched a different game than the one I saw,” he explained in detail.

Ange Postecoglou defended Cristiano Ronaldo when a reporter questioned the player following an Al-Nassr defeat pic.twitter.com/8oHVGf3V9Q

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 16, 2026

*photo source: AP