The Portuguese Federation surprises Ronaldo with a move that raises questions: is the crisis over?

The Portuguese Football Federation celebrated Cristiano Ronaldo's goal with Al-Nassr of Saudi Arabia, in a move that drew attention amid the ongoing controversy over the Portugal captain's relationship with his national team, following his departure from the squad's camp during the latest international break, against the backdrop of his dispute with coach Jorge Jesus.

Ronaldo returned to Saudi Arabia after leaving the national team camp, lining up for Al-Nassr against Al-Diriyah yesterday, Friday, in the eighth round of the Saudi Pro League. He opened the scoring in a 3-0 win for his side.

Quick off the mark, the Portuguese Federation flagged up Ronaldo's goal, the 980th of his career, across its social media accounts.

They posted Don's celebration with the caption: "Cristiano Ronaldo's goal in Al-Nassr's win".

That interaction came at a time when the Federation stays officially silent on the crisis sparked by Ronaldo's exit from the camp, and the exchange of statements that followed amid the row with Jesus.

Ronaldo had hinted at taking responsibility for his actions, and spoke of the possibility of facing sanctions. The Federation has yet to issue an official statement on the incident. So does this gesture count as proof the crisis between the two parties is over?

Samu Costa's goal ignored

Al-Nassr's second goal against Al-Diriyah got no such treatment from the Portuguese Federation. The scorer, Samu Costa, is a national team player with 7 international appearances, and he struck after a pass from compatriot Joao Felix, who is enjoying a good spell with the national team.

Frenchman Kingsley Coman grabbed the Saudi side's third, sealing the match with a clean three goals.