NEW DELHI: In a much-anticipated friendly between Al Nassr and Inter Miami, the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi due to injury and limited playing time, respectively, did not deter Al Nassr from securing a commanding 6-0 victory over the Major League Soccer (MLS) side.
Ronaldo's calf injury led to the cancellation of Al Nassr's two-game China tour last week, denying fans the prospect of witnessing a potentially final showdown between the long-time rivals.
Instead, Brazilian player Talisca stole the spotlight with a remarkable hat-trick, contributing to Al Nassr's impressive performance.
The Saudi Pro League side dominated from the start, with Talisca scoring three goals in the first 12 minutes. Otavio drilled in the opening goal after Miami lost possession while attempting to play out from the back. Talisca then turned in Al Nassr's second, taking advantage of Miami's defensive lapses.
Aymeric Laporte added a spectacular long-range free-kick to further extend the lead.
Talisca continued his scoring prowess with a second goal from the penalty spot early in the second half, while Mohammed Maran looped in a header, compounding Miami's struggles.
Despite the presence of former Barcelona stars Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami found it challenging to match Al Nassr's dominance.
Talisca completed his hat-trick and celebrated with Ronaldo's signature move. Lionel Messi made a late substitute appearance for the final seven minutes, but by then, Al Nassr had already secured a convincing victory.
Inter Miami, continuing their pre-season preparations, will head to Asia for games in Hong Kong and Japan. The MLS season is set to kick off on February 21, and the team aims to fine-tune their form for the upcoming campaign.
(With inputs from AFP)
