Ronaldo Led Al-Nassr’s Win, Keeps Title Hopes Alive
Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a sensational performance in Saudi Arabia as he scored a crucial goal to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory for Al-Nassr against Al-Shabab in the Riyadh derby. The Portuguese superstar’s remarkable goal not only earned his team a crucial win but also kept alive their hopes of clinching the Roshn Saudi League title, preventing leaders Al-Ittihad from celebrating their first league championship since 2009.
Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad managed to edge past the relegation-bound Al-Batin with a narrow 1-0 victory, maintaining their three-point lead at the top of the table. With just two games remaining in the season, the Jeddah giants are in pole position to claim the title. However, with Al-Nassr breathing down their necks following their impressive victory, the pressure will undoubtedly be mounting on Al-Ittihad.
In the highly anticipated clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Shabab, the latter started brightly, displaying their attacking prowess. However, as the game progressed, Al-Nassr began to dominate proceedings, leading to two penalty appeals before the 20-minute mark. It was Al-Shabab who eventually earned a penalty midway through the first half when a corner struck Luiz Gustavo’s arm. Cristian Guanca confidently converted the spot-kick, giving Al-Shabab a precious lead.
The leaders, Al-Ittihad, also made their presence felt in their match against Al-Batin. Ahmed Sharahili’s precise cross from the left found the in-form Romarinho, who rose above the defenders to head the ball into the net, sending the Jeddah faithful into raptures.
Match Highlights
Not to be outdone, Cristiano Ronaldo showcased his aerial prowess after 32 minutes. Following an earlier free-kick that struck the wall, the Portuguese icon leaped high in the air, reminiscent of his iconic moments at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, and directed a powerful header against the crossbar, leaving Kim Seung-gyu, the Al-Shabab goalkeeper, helpless.
However, Al-Shabab responded emphatically eight minutes later, with Guanca netting his second goal of the match. The Argentine forward displayed remarkable skill on the edge of the area, exchanging quick passes before unleashing a fierce shot past the goalkeeper.
Al-Nassr refused to be deterred and quickly fought back. Talisca provided a precise pass inside the box, allowing Abdulrahman Ghareeb to turn and shoot, leveling the scores. The equalizer injected hope into the Al-Nassr camp and invigorated their fans. As both teams headed into the halftime break, Al-Ittihad knew that if the scorelines remained the same, they would secure the title.
With determination coursing through their veins, Al-Nassr emerged from the break with renewed energy and swiftly restored parity. Ali Al Hassan delivered a perfect cross from the left, finding Abdulrahman Ghareeb, who skillfully turned on the edge of the six-yard box and slotted the ball home.
Nine minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo once again stole the spotlight, producing a moment of magic to complete Al-Nassr’s impressive comeback. The Portuguese superstar collected the ball 30 meters out, expertly evaded two defenders, and unleashed a curling shot from the edge of the area. It was his 14th goal in just 15 league games, arguably one of his finest since joining the Saudi club in January.
Despite a few nervy moments, Al-Shabab failed to find an equalizer, allowing Al-Nassr to hold on for a vital victory, keeping their title aspirations alive. Al-Shabab’s defeat meant they remained in third place, ahead of defending champions Al-Hilal, who suffered a 2-0 loss to Al-Adalah earlier in the day.
With Al-Ittihad securing a narrow but crucial victory, they are on the verge of claiming the league title. If they triumph in their upcoming match against Al-Fayha, the championship will be theirs. However, should they falter and Al-Nassr emerge victorious against Ettifaq, the title race will extend to the final day, creating a thrilling climax filled with uncertainty and potential surprises.
As the Roshn Saudi League enters its decisive stages, the drama intensifies, and football fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling conclusion to a fiercely contested season.
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