The Cristiano Ronaldo machine shows no signs of slowing down. On a historic Wednesday night at Alawwal Park, the 41-year-old legend netted the 970th goal of his professional career to lead Al-Nassr to a clinical 2-0 victory over title rivals Al-Ahli.
The win is significant for more than just the three points; it marks Al-Nassr’s 20th consecutive victory across all competitions, leaving Jorge Jesus’ side on the brink of a historic Saudi Pro League title.
The Breakthrough: A Trademark Header
For 75 minutes, Al-Ahli—fresh off their AFC Champions League Elite triumph—proved to be a stubborn nut to crack. The visitors nearly took the lead in the first half when Merih Demiral’s powerful header was spectacularly tipped away by Bento, and a potential Al-Ahli penalty was overturned by VAR just before the interval.
However, big games belong to big players. In the 76th minute, the deadlock was finally shattered. João Félix delivered a pinpoint, in-swinging corner from the left, and Ronaldo showcased his timeless aerial prowess, rising highest at the near post to flick a header into the far corner past Édouard Mendy.
The stadium erupted as Ronaldo performed his iconic “Siu” celebration, knowing he had just moved his side eight points clear of Al-Hilal at the top of the table.
Coman Puts the Game to Bed
As Al-Ahli pushed forward in search of an equalizer, they left gaps at the back that Al-Nassr were more than happy to exploit. In the 90th minute, the points were made safe. Following a brilliant ball in behind from Aiman Yahya, Kingsley Coman latched onto the pass and lashed a vicious strike past Mendy at the near post to settle the contest.
The game ended with tempers flaring, particularly following a rash challenge by Coman in stoppage time, but the damage was done. Al-Nassr’s defense, led by Mohamed Simakan and Iñigo Martínez, held firm to record their 17th clean sheet of the season.
The Road to the Title
With only four games remaining for Al-Nassr, the dream of a domestic and continental double is very much alive.
• League Standing: Al-Nassr sits on 79 points, eight points ahead of Al-Hilal (who have two games in hand).
• Next Up: Al-Nassr will look to maintain their winning streak when they face Al Qadsiah this Sunday.
• Asian Glory: The club is also preparing for the “second-tier” AFC Champions League final against Japan’s Gamba Osaka on May 16.
For Ronaldo, the hunt for goal number 1,000 continues, but for now, he’ll be more focused on lifting his first major trophy in Saudi Arabia.
