Cristiano Ronaldo convinced a referee to overturn a penalty decision given in his favour during Al-Nassr's goalless draw with Iranian side Persepolis.

The legendary forward, 38, went down in the area less than two minutes into the AFC Champions League tie having seemingly been tripped by an opposition defender.

Chinese official Ma Ning pointed to the spot to the fury of the visiting players, before Ronaldo surprisingly joined in the remonstrations.

The Portuguese star weaved through bodies to tell the referee that the incident was not worthy of a penalty kick and Ning was soon making his way over to the pitchside monitor.

Replays clearly showed no contact had been made and the decision was subsequently overturned — as would arguably have been the case regardless of Ronaldo's gesture.

Al-Nassr were unable to break the deadlock in the remainder of the contest, playing most of the game with 10 men after Ali Lajami was sent off in the 17th minute.

Despite the stalemate, the Saudi giants are already assured top spot in their group having amassed 13 points from their opening five continental games.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo's side sit second in the domestic Pro League, four points behind leaders Al-Hilal who boast the likes of Neymar, Aleksandr Mitrovic and Ruben Neves in their ranks.

The two clubs meet on Friday evening in a game that looks set to play a significant role in the title race.

Ronaldo has a commanding lead in the division's Golden Boot race having racked up 15 strikes in 13 outings — four clear of former Fulham man Mitrovic in second.