Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved pivotal for Al-Nassr as the Portuguese superstar found the back of the net in a crucial 2-0 win over Al-Khaleej on Wednesday night in the Saudi Pro League. The result keeps Al-Nassr firmly in the top-four race and reignites hope of finishing the season on a strong note.
Ronaldo, who returned to the starting lineup after missing the previous game against Al-Taawoun, scored from the penalty spot in the second half to seal the victory at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. Earlier in the half, Colombian striker Jhon Durán had opened the scoring, setting the stage for a much-needed win for the home side.
Ronaldo: “One of Those Nights”
Taking to social media shortly after the match, the 39-year-old captain shared his emotions with fans and reflected on the challenging nature of the encounter.
“One of those nights where the ball just didn’t want to go in… until it did,” Ronaldo posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. The message was accompanied by a celebratory photo of him after converting the penalty.
It was a night of persistence for the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who had several attempts on goal before finally beating the goalkeeper from the spot. The goal was his 33rd in all competitions this season for Al-Nassr, underlining his continued importance to the squad.
A Comeback After Injury Absence
Ronaldo was notably absent from Al-Nassr’s 1-1 draw against Al-Taawoun last Friday due to a minor injury concern, which had raised doubts about his availability. His return to action not only boosted team morale but also brought renewed energy to the attack.
“Having Cristiano back is always a big plus,” said Al-Nassr head coach Luís Castro in his post-match press conference. “His presence lifts the entire team and his leadership on the field speaks volumes. Even when it’s not easy, he keeps pushing — and that goal was crucial.”
Second-Half Surge Seals the Win
The match remained goalless at halftime despite Al-Nassr dominating possession. After the break, it was Durán who broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute, finishing off a slick team move with a calm strike past Al-Khaleej’s keeper.
Just 12 minutes later, Ronaldo stepped up confidently to take a penalty after Seko Fofana was fouled in the box. With trademark composure, the Portuguese forward sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 2-0 and put the game beyond reach.
Al-Nassr held on comfortably for the remainder of the match, maintaining defensive discipline while continuing to probe for a third goal that never came.
Current Standings and What’s Next
Following the victory, Al-Nassr now sit in 4th place in the Saudi Pro League standings, with 67 points from 33 matches. While they are out of the title race, securing a top-three finish remains mathematically possible, depending on other results.
The team’s final league game will be against Al Fateh on Monday, where Ronaldo and his teammates will aim to end the season on a high. Al Fateh, currently mid-table, could prove to be tricky opposition, but Al-Nassr will be favourites given their recent form.
“This group has worked hard all season,” said coach Castro. “There have been ups and downs, but we want to finish strong and give the fans something to celebrate.”
Contract Uncertainty Looms
As the season nears its end, speculation continues to swirl around Ronaldo’s future at the club. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star’s contract with Al-Nassr is set to expire at the conclusion of the current campaign, and as of now, no extension has been officially confirmed.
While Ronaldo has publicly expressed satisfaction with life in Saudi Arabia, fans remain anxious over whether he will commit to another season with the Riyadh-based side.
“Cristiano has shown immense professionalism and commitment,” a club insider told Africalivenews under condition of anonymity. “There are discussions ongoing, but nothing has been finalized yet. The club values him deeply, and we’ll see what happens in the coming days.”
Fan Reaction and Legacy in the League
Supporters took to social media to express their delight at Ronaldo’s return to the scoresheet. Many praised his fighting spirit and called on the club to extend his contract.
“He’s still one of the best in the world. That goal tonight was just another reminder of what he brings,” said Mohammed Al-Qahtani, a long-time Al-Nassr fan.
Since arriving in Saudi Arabia in December 2022, Ronaldo has played a transformative role in raising the global profile of the Saudi Pro League. His arrival paved the way for other high-profile international stars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Neymar to join the league.
With 33 goals across domestic and continental competitions this season, Ronaldo has once again proven that age is just a number.
Looking Ahead
With just one league match remaining and uncertainty about his contract status, the spotlight remains firmly on Cristiano Ronaldo. For now, the Portuguese legend seems focused solely on helping Al-Nassr finish their season with another win.
“Every match is important,” Ronaldo said last week. “I give my all, and as long as I’m on the pitch, I’ll always fight for this team.”
Whether he stays or departs at the end of the season, Ronaldo’s impact at Al-Nassr and on Saudi football as a whole has already been indelible. Fans will be watching closely to see how the next chapter unfolds.
