The Saudi Pro League title race took a dramatic, heart-wrenching turn last night as Al-Nassr were denied their first championship of the Cristiano Ronaldo era in the most agonizing fashion. In a high-stakes Capital Derby at Alawwal Park, a 98th-minute calamitous own goal forced a 1-1 draw against arch-rivals Al-Hilal, keeping the trophy race mathematically alive for at least another week.
For 97 minutes, the script was perfect. Al-Nassr, needing a victory to officially secure their first league crown since 2019, looked composed and dominant. The breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Mohamed Simakan rose highest to thump home a header from a pinpoint Kingsley Coman corner. The stadium erupted, and as the clock ticked down, the celebrations in Riyadh were already beginning.
The Moment It All Unravelled
The tension reached a boiling point in the eight minutes of added time. With Al-Hilal throwing everything forward, a seemingly harmless long ball caused total panic in the Al-Nassr box. Goalkeeper Bento and veteran defender Inigo Martinez suffered a catastrophic breakdown in communication; as they both challenged for the same ball, it spilled from Bento’s grasp and trickled into his own net.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who had been substituted in the 83rd minute to a standing ovation, could only watch from the dugout in stunned silence. Cameras captured the Portuguese icon staring into the distance, a mix of disbelief and frustration etched on his face as the title celebrations were put on ice.
What This Means for the Title Race
Despite the late collapse, Al-Nassr remain in the driving seat. They sit top of the table with 83 points, five clear of Al-Hilal, who have a game in hand.
• Al-Nassr’s Path: A win in their final match against Damac on May 21st will guarantee the title regardless of other results.
• Al-Hilal’s Hope: They must win their remaining games against Neom and Al Fayha while hoping for a total Al-Nassr collapse.
Ronaldo took to social media shortly after the final whistle to rally his troops, posting: “The dream is close. Heads up, we have one more step to take! Thank you all for the amazing support tonight!”
