Ronaldo remained on the bench throughout the match at Prince Abdullah AlFaisal Sports City on 23/9. This was reportedly to keep him fresh for the upcoming match against Al Ittihad, the reigning Saudi Pro League champions, on 26/9.

Felix celebrates during Al Nassr's 4-0 win over Jeddah in the King Cup round of 32 on 23/9. Photo: Reuters

Felix celebrates during Al Nassr's 4-0 win over Jeddah in the King Cup round of 32 on 23/9. Photo: Reuters

Ronaldo's absence didn't significantly impact Al Nassr's chances of advancing to the round of 16. The rest of the squad proved too strong for their second-division opponents, Jeddah. In the 8th minute, Angelo's cross led to an own goal by Abu Bakr, giving the visitors the lead.

After the opening goal, Al Nassr continued to dominate. In the 62nd minute, Wesley doubled the lead with a curling shot into the far corner after a run down the left wing.

Felix shone towards the end of the match. The former Atletico Madrid and Chelsea player tapped in to make it 3-0 in the 71st minute, before his corner kick assisted Simakan's header, sealing the 4-0 victory in the 89th minute.

Al Nassr's main rivals also secured their places in the round of 16 by defeating second-division teams. Al Ahli beat Al Arabi 5-0, while Al Hilal and Al Ittihad overcame Al Adalah and Al Wehda respectively with identical 1-0 scores.

The King Cup is one of three domestic competitions in Saudi Arabia, alongside the Saudi Pro League and the Saudi Super Cup. Al Nassr lost to Al Ahli 3-5 on penalties in the Saudi Super Cup final but currently leads the Saudi Pro League with three wins from three matches.

Thanh Quy