Ronaldo Leads Al Nassr to Top of Saudi Pro League After VAR Drama

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Al Nassr defeated Al Hazem 4-0, propelling them to the top of the Saudi Pro League standings. The victory came after a period of uncertainty for the 41-year-old Portuguese superstar, who had previously missed two league matches following a disagreement with the club over January transfer activity.

Ronaldo’s Return to Form

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 13th minute, receiving a pass from Kingsley Coman in the penalty area and calmly slotting the ball into the far corner. The goal was initially subject to a VAR review for offside, but ultimately stood, marking Ronaldo’s 500th goal since turning 30.

Coman extended Al Nassr’s lead in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a move involving João Felix. Ronaldo had a second goal disallowed for offside before halftime.

Second-Half Dominance

Despite having another goal ruled out for offside in the second half, Al Nassr continued to dominate. Angelo scored a remarkable solo goal in the 77th minute, starting from inside his own half. Ronaldo secured his second goal of the match in the 80th minute, finishing a short pass from Coman with a precise angled drive. This goal also required a VAR check before being confirmed.

Al Hilal Stumbles, Al Nassr Capitalize

Al Nassr’s victory was further aided by Al Hilal’s 1-1 draw against Al Ittihad. Despite playing with a man advantage for over 80 minutes after Hassen Kadish received a red card, Al Hilal could only manage a draw. Karim Benzema set up Salem Al Dawsari for Al Hilal’s opening goal, but Houssem Aouar equalized for Al Ittihad in the second half.

Ronaldo’s Commitment to Saudi Arabia

Following the match, Ronaldo expressed his happiness and commitment to Al Nassr and Saudi Arabia. He posted on Instagram, “Back where we belong,” and added, “Now back to work.” This statement comes after he publicly stated he was “highly happy” in Saudi Arabia and wants to stay, according to The Athletic. He previously missed league wins against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad due to feeling let down by the club’s hierarchy regarding squad strengthening during the January transfer window.

League Standings

Al Nassr’s win moves them one point ahead of Al Hilal at the top of the Saudi Pro League table.