Why Cristiano Ronaldo's next game will be played behind-closed-doors

Cristiano Ronaldo's next game will be played without any supporters present.

The match is being played at the Azadi Stadium, which houses 78,000 fans and there has been an incredible buzz for the fixture - in particular the arrival of five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, much to the disappointment of fans, the Champions League encounter will actually be played behind-closed-doors.

Hosts Persepolis, the most successful club in Iran, must serve a one-game stadium ban stemming from a controversial social media post.

Ahead of a meeting with Indian club FC Goa back in the 2021/22 season, a now deleted post mentioned Iran's invasion of India in the 18th century in an attempt to raise the stakes somewhat.

Persepolis were not in a continental competition last year and so this was their first game where the suspension could be imposed.

Supporters were said to be commenting on Goa's posts, apologising for the previous content.

A Saudi team has not played in Iran since 2015 after ties between the two were severed. Relations have improved, however following an agreement brokered by China back in March.

The game kicks off at 7pm on Tuesday, with the reverse fixture taking place in Riyadh on November 27.