Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr were knocked of the Saudi Super Cup Thursday after a 3-1 semi-final loss to Al Ittihad in Riyadh.
The 37-year old Portugal international, five-time Ballon D'Or winner, had a couple of chances to score but was well shackled by the Al Ittihad defence for most of their semi-final at King Fahd International Stadium.
Anderson Talisca's goal for Al Nassr in the 67th minute was not enough to turn around the deficit from two first-half goals for Al Ittihad from Romarinho and Abderrazak Hamdallah.
Muhannad Al-Shanqeeti added the third three minutes into stoppage time.
Al Ittihad will play Al Fayha, who beat Al Hilal 1-0 in the other Super Cup semi-final Thursday, in Sunday's final.
The Portuguese star, making his second appearance for the Saudi Pro League leaders, failed again to open his account for his new club, although he did go close towards the end of the first half in Riyadh.
With Nassr already 1-0 down, Ronaldo's powerful header was blocked by Ittihad goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe. Although, having done well to get to the cross, the former Manchester United forward really should have scored.
To make matters worse, Ittihad went 2-0 up almost immediately afterwards. They eventually saw out the match 3-1.
Post-match, Garcia said: "One of the things that changed the course of the match was Cristiano's missed opportunity in the first half.”
In what would surely cause the French manager further distress, Ronaldo appeared to be carrying an injury as he left the pitch following the defeat at King Fahd International Stadium.
Al Nassr next travel to Al Fateh in the Saudi Pro League next Friday.
