On the night of May 12-13, several major events unfolded in the football world. China’s U17 national team secured a spot in the U17 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo missed the chance to clinch the Saudi Pro League title early, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez took aim at Barcelona in a press conference, and Barcelona responded officially.
In the final group stage match of the U17 Asian Cup, China’s U17 team defeated Qatar 2-0 to advance to the knockout rounds and qualify for the U17 World Cup. Zhao Songyuan created chances with a long-range shot, He Sifan scored a stunning curled effort, and Zhang Bolin added a header to seal the victory.
In the Saudi Pro League, Al Nassr drew 1-1 with Al Hilal in a crucial top-of-the-table clash, delaying their chance to secure the title early. With one game remaining, Al Nassr lead by five points but have played an extra match. Simakan opened the scoring for Al Nassr, while Coman provided an assist and hit the post, and Benzema missed a chance and had a goal ruled offside. Ronaldo was substituted in the 83rd minute, and Al Hilal’s goalkeeper Bento made a late error that led to the equalizer.
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez held a press conference denying rumors of his resignation and cancer, and refusing to comment on whether José Mourinho had been signed. He openly criticized Barcelona, stating: “The Negreira case is the biggest scandal. Barcelona has always benefited from it. I will submit evidence to UEFA. We should have won 14 La Liga titles, but seven were taken away from us.”
Barcelona officially responded to Pérez’s remarks, saying: “Our legal department is carefully analyzing the statements and accusations. We will thoroughly review the content and assess the next steps to take.”
Meanwhile, former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas publicly opposed the possibility of José Mourinho returning to coach Real Madrid, stating on social media that while he has no issue with Mourinho personally, he does not want to see him manage the club.
