Al Nassr Delays Neftchi Match After Riyadh Security Alert

Al Nassr's AFC Champions League match against Neftchi Fergana was delayed on October 12 at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh after security alerts about drone and missile threats prompted precautionary checks before kickoff, according to ynetnews.com and beinsports.com.

The match was scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Saudi time but started about 20 minutes later after officials assessed the situation. Players from both teams remained off the field while security procedures were carried out, according to beinsports.com.

Spectators inside the stadium received warnings on their phones as Riyadh faced heightened security concerns following attacks on King Khalid International Airport. Ynetnews.com reported that one person was killed and 11 others were wounded in a Sunday attack.

Organizers kept fans in the stands during the delay and used the stadium announcement system to provide updates before the match resumed.

"There was no need to leave their seats and organizers intended to proceed with the game later that evening," said the stadium announcement.

Cristiano Ronaldo was available for Al Nassr after scoring in the club's previous 3-0 win over Al-Diriyah, according to sports.yahoo.com. The Portuguese forward was expected to lead the attack alongside Joao Felix.

Al Nassr entered the match seeking its first win in the continental competition after a 4-0 defeat in its opening AFC Champions League Elite game, while Neftchi Fergana arrived after a 1-0 victory over Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya, according to sports.yahoo.com.

The security interruption did not cancel the fixture. After the checks were completed, Al Nassr and Neftchi Fergana proceeded with the match at the Riyadh venue.