Football fans in Tehran, Iran, gave a rapturous welcome to Cristiano Ronaldo as he arrived in the Iranian capital with the Al Nassr squad ahead of their AFC Champions League match against Persepolis FC. The crowd's enthusiasm was palpable as they tracked Ronaldo's aircraft and gathered in numbers at the Imam Khomeini International Airport.

Tehran's municipality joined in the excitement, adorning the city with multilingual banners welcoming Ronaldo and his teammates. However, the enthusiasm of the fans, who eagerly awaited the superstar's presence, was met with disappointment as the match was to be played behind closed doors. The AFC imposed this measure due to a 2020 social media post by Persepolis FC, which was deemed offensive to an Indian club.

Article Continues Below
More Soccer News
Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold (66) passes the ball away from Borussia Dortmund forward Jacob Bruun Larsen (34) in the second half of a pre-season preparation soccer match at Notre Dame.
Ex-Liverpool star to join Real Madrid for €10m feeJordan Llanes ·
May 16, 2025; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Gotham FC forward Geyse Ferreira (10) kicks the ball during the first half against San Diego Wave FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Gotham FC makes history with Concacaf W Champions Cup victoryZachary Draves ·
Al Nassr player Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after being substituted in a Saudi Pro League soccer match at King Abdullah Sports City.
Cristiano Ronaldo teases departure after end of Saudi seasonQuinn Allen ·
Emergency services at the scene after multiple people were hit by a car during the Liverpool football club victory parade.
LeBron James reacts to man ramming fans with car at Liverpool victory paradeJason Patt ·
Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda (22) shoots past Utah Royals FC midfielder Claudia Zornoza (10) during the second half at America First Field.
Watch this Pride player net the fastest hat trick in NWSL historyMiguel La Torre ·
The Arsenal FC starting eleven pose for a picture prior to their friendly against Washington Spirit at Audi Field.
Arsenal make history with shocking championship upset over BarcelonaMiguel La Torre ·

Despite the absence of spectators, heavy security surrounded the bus that transported the Al Nassr players to their hotel, the luxurious Espinas Palace in northwestern Tehran, Iran. The bus driver quickly gained social media fame, accumulating a substantial following on Instagram within hours.

Scores of fans chased after the bus, with videos showing their unwavering devotion. As the team arrived at the hotel, a crowd of supporters gathered at the entrance, some even managing to access the lobby and corridors. Spectators could be seen climbing the hills behind the hotel, eager to glimpse their football idols.

The excitement reached a crescendo as the Al Nassr squad made their way to their reserved floors amid chants of Ronaldo's name. However, the fans' enthusiasm eventually led to the cancellation of the team's training session for the day, underscoring the electric atmosphere surrounding Ronaldo's presence in Tehran, Iran.