Al Nassr continues to showcase their dominance in the Saudi Pro League, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the charge. The Portuguese superstar guided Al Nassr to a decisive 2-0 away victory over Al Wehda on February 25 at the King Abdul Aziz Stadium, keeping the pressure on rival clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli.
The match did not begin without complications; technical issues with Al Nassr's team bus led to a one-hour delay before the opening whistle. Fans might have expected this disruption to impact performance, but both teams appeared underwhelming initially, opting for caution during the first half with very few opportunities to speak of.
After the break, Al Nassr took control right from the restart. Just three minutes after the resumption, substitute Angelo delivered a perfect cross, allowing Ronaldo to find the net with his trademark glancing header, marking his 17th league goal of the season. This goal brought him one step closer to the spectacular milestone of 1,000 career goals, positioning him at 925 as he aims for the historic achievement. Ronaldo celebrated the moment with his iconic 'siu' gesture, bringing delight to the traveling supporters.
Despite falling behind, Al Wehda responded with vigor, consistently threatening the opposition’s goal. Striker Morad Mohammed Abdullah Khodari came close to equalizing but unfortunately squandered his chance just before the hour mark. The Mecca-based side pressed on, with Youssef Amyn’s cross aimed at Craig Goodwin intercepted just in time by Al Nassr’s defense.
The game reached another turning point deep in stoppage time when Ronaldo won a free-kick. His effort rebounded off Juninho Bacuna at the Al Wehda wall, prompting Al Nassr's players to appeal for a penalty due to handball. Following VAR consultation, the referee awarded the penalty for what was determined as handball, leading to Ronaldo's decision to pass the penalty opportunity to Sadio Mane, who hadn’t scored for some time. Mane took his chance effectively, sealing the 2-0 victory.
This win was particularly significant as it marked Al Nassr's ninth consecutive victory over Al Wehda, who currently sit at the bottom of the league standings. Al Nassr climbed to third place with 47 points from 22 matches, closing the gap on second-place Al-Hilal.
Ronaldo’s movement and tactical awareness were on full display throughout the match, contributing to Al Nassr's growing confidence as they head toward the latter part of the season. His resolve to reach the milestone of 1,000 goals reflects not only his exceptional skill but also charges the team’s competitive spirit. "It will be quite difficult, but it is to see how I am mentally, my motivation," Ronaldo expressed earlier this year, alluding to his personal goal of scoring 1,000 goals.
Since joining Al Nassr following his exit from Manchester United, Ronaldo has decisively transformed his new club's fortunes, scoring 100 goals since January 2023, just two years after his move to Saudi Arabia. This impressive scoring record fits within his broader narrative of winning everywhere he has played, as he has done throughout his career.
Al Nassr, alongside Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, remains one of the premier teams in the Saudi Pro League, with their competitive nature intensifying as the title chase heats up. Indications are strong; with leaders Al-Ittihad sitting just four points above them, every match at this juncture is pivotal as teams vie for championship honors.
The match against Al Wehda proved not just another win; it was about creating momentum as the squad and Ronaldo eye more glory this season. Not only did Ronaldo bolster his standing within the league but demonstrated the generosity of spirit, leaving the late penalty to Mane as a gesture to uplift his teammate during challenging times.
With the league’s end approaching, Al Nassr is set to continue their talented run, supported by Ronaldo's undaunted pursuit of success. The juxtaposition of veteran standouts and rising stars signifies their ambition to maintain top-tier status across the board.