Joel Kojo: Ghanaian-Born Kyrgyzstan Star Shows Off Ronaldo’s Jersey After Al-Nassr Clash

• Ghanaian-born Kyrgyzstan star Joel Kojo experienced a once-in-a-lifetime moment with Cristiano Ronaldo
• The 26-year-old, who was born in Accra, became naturalised in the Asian country in 2023 and has not looked back
• Kojo was adjudged Kyrgyzstan’s Footballer of the Year in 2024 following his efforts in the year under review

A Ghanaian-born footballer experienced a dream come true after sharing the pitch with Portugal and Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo on March 10, 2025.

The naturalised Kyrgyzstan international and his Iranian premier league side Esteghlal met the Saudi Pro League giants in the Asian Champions League.

Joel Kojo receives Ronaldo's iconic jersey

Joel Kojo experienced both sharing the pitch with Ronaldo and the honour of taking home his iconic No.7 shirt during a high-stakes AFC CL clash against Al-Nassr.

The 26-year-old led the line for his Persian Gulf Pro League side in their Round of 16 showdown with the Saudi giants, featuring for 65 minutes of the intense game.

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Though his side fell short and bowed out of the Asian elite tournament, Kojo’s encounter with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner became one of his highlights.

How did Kojo perform vs Ronaldo's Al-Nassr?

Tasked with spearheading Esteghlal’s attack, the Accra-born striker worked tirelessly against Al-Nassr’s defensive line but unfortunately failed to find the net.

However, he managed one shot on target, won two ground duels, dominated three aerial battles, and drew a foul before making way for Mohammad Reza Azadi.

His contribution earned him a 6.8 rating on Sofascore. He also left the pitch with a moment to cherish despite the disappointment - Ronaldo’s match-worn jersey.

The Portuguese superstar, known for his gracious post-match gestures, clearly helped turn an otherwise frustrating night into an unforgettable one.

Ronaldo inspires Al-Nassr to victory

Beyond Kojo’s milestone, the game also showcased Ronaldo's enduring brilliance as Al-Nassr put three past Esteghlal to reachthe AFC CL quarter-finals.

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The former Manchester United forward delivered a commanding performance, inspiring Al-Nassr to a comfortable victory.

Ronaldo notched a cheeky Panenka penalty between former Aston Villa forward Jhon Durán's strikes, leading to a 3-0 win.

Kojo’s rise from Ghana to Kyrgyzstan

Born in Accra, Kojo’s football journey took him far from home and he has reaped consistent success as a naturalised Kyrgyz.

A Ghanaian by birth, he embraced a new chapter where his efforts earned him citizenship and a place in the national team.

Since making his debut for Kyrgyzstan in June 2023, he has racked up 23 appearances and scored 10 times for his side.

His exploits in the Kyrgyzstan Premier League with Alay and Dordoi Bishkek have cemented his reputation as a lethal forward.

Before moving to Uzbekistan and then Iran, he amassed an impressive 55 goals and also provided nine assists, per Transfermarkt.

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His prolific form saw him crowned the league’s top scorer in 2018, and last year, he was named Kyrgyzstan’s Footballer of the Year.

Ex-Ghana star obtains Italian citizenship

YEN.com.gh also reported that former Black Satellites midfielder Moses Odjer earned Italian citizenship after spending over a decade in Europe.

Odjer has built his senior career in Italy, featuring for multiple clubs, including Salernitana and Palermo in the country's league str

Source: YEN.com.gh