Saudi League Title Race: Ronaldo Shines With 970th Goal As Al Nassr Pip Al Ahli
- Cristiano Ronaldo inspired Al-Nassr to a crucial win over Al Ahli as they edge closer to the Saudi Pro League title
- The 41-year-old marked his 970th career goal by swapping his trademark Siuuu celebration for a traditional dance
- With the victory secured, the Knights of Najd have extended their remarkable run in the SPL to 20 consecutive wins
Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved decisive as Al-Nassr edged Al Ahli to tighten their grip on the Saudi Pro League title race with a 2-0 win on April 29.
The veteran forward delivered when it mattered most, scoring the opener before Kingsley Coman sealed the win late in a tense contest on Wednesday.
Source: Getty Images
Ronaldo hits 970th goal in crucial win
Al Nassr came into the match on a 19-game winning run and knew another victory would move them closer to a first league title since the 2018/19 season.
It was a cagey affair for long spells, as both sides showed discipline and defensive strength. With the game finely poised, Ronaldo stepped up during the 76th minute.
The Portuguese veteran forward met a well-placed cross from João Félix to break the deadlock and send the home fans into celebration.
Watch Ronaldo's dance celebration, as shared on X:
Coman then wrapped up the points in the 90th minute with a powerful volley that flew past Edouard Mendy.
The result takes Al-Nassr to 79 points after 30 matches, opening an eight-point gap over rivals Al Hilal, who have a game in hand, as cited by Fotmob.
According to ESPN, it also extends the Knights of Najd's winning streak to 20 matches across all competitions.
Watch Coman's thunderbolt, as shared on X:
Ronaldo nears 1000 goals, sets scoring marker
For Ronaldo, the goal marked his 970th career strike, bringing him closer to the remarkable 1000-goal mark.
He is also looking at three-peating the league’s top scorer award, but with 25 goals this term, he is three goals shy of Julián Quiñones' tally.
Additionally, Cristiano's strike against Al Ahli means he has now scored against 16 different teams in the league this season.
The only side yet to concede to him is Al Shabab.
Source: Getty Images
Al Nassr eye title push
Next up is a difficult trip to face Al Qadsiah on May 3. The fixture carries additional intrigue, with Ghana winger Christopher Bonsu Baah expected to feature for Qadsiah.
However, Al Nassr’s recent record against the Knight of the East is a concern. They are winless in their last four meetings and have not beaten them since 2020.
With momentum firmly on their side and Ronaldo leading the charge, having even cut milk from his diet to maintain peak fitness, the objective is unmistakable: keep winning and bring the league title back to Riyadh.
Ronaldo's greatest strength laid bare
Previously, YEN.com.gh also reported that Fernando Hierro had explained what continues to set Cristiano Ronaldo apart at this stage of his career.
He attributed the Portuguese star’s longevity to discipline and drive, despite concerns over CR7's age and his long-term role with the national team.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
