The opening goal in the 26th minute was Ronaldo’s signature style, when he caught the ball from outside the penalty area, feigned to eliminate the accompanying player, then shot a long and dangerous shot, beating goalkeeper Al Haidari.

 

The 38-year-old striker celebrated the goal in the familiar “Siuuu” style, before creating a heart shape for his girlfriend Georgina Rodriguez in the stands.That was Ronaldo’s 400th goal after 475 matches, since turning 30. Ronaldo and Erling Haaland temporarily lead the scoring list in 2023 with 44 goals, one goal more than Harry Kane. The Portuguese striker is also dominating the top scorer race in the Saudi Pro League, with 12 goals. In 16 matches in all competitions this season, Ronaldo scored 15 goals.

 

Not only did he contribute a super goal, Ronaldo also assisted Aymeric Laporte to easily score his first goal in an Al Nassr shirt in the 58th minute, thereby sealing a 2-0 victory. With 12 goals and six assists, Ronaldo leads the club in both categories.

 

“We have a special strategy to not give Ronaldo space,” Al Khaleej coach Pedro Emanuel said after the match. “But somehow, he still scores goals and assists. I’m not angry, but feel honored to see the best player in the world. He’s 38 years old but plays like he’s 24.”

 

Even without Anderson Talisca due to suspension, Al Nassr still dominated Al Khaleej with 70% ball control. The host could have opened the score from the 10th minute, if Sadio Mane had not been denied a goal due to an offside error by teammate Ghareeb. Thanks to Ronaldo’s great work, Al Nassr has 28 points after 12 matches, only four points behind top of the table Al Hilal.