What Happened
Cristiano Ronaldo scored in his third consecutive match, leading Al Nassr to a commanding 5-0 victory over bottom-placed Al Najma in the Saudi Pro League. The match took place on Wednesday, with Ronaldo opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the seventh minute. Kingsley Coman and Iñigo Martínez added two more goals in the first half, giving Al Nassr a 3-0 lead at halftime. Sadio Mané scored early in the second half, after which manager Jorge Jesus began substituting key players, including Ronaldo, who now has 20 goals this season, three behind Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney in the race for the Saudi Golden Boot.
Why It Matters
This victory marks Al Nassr’s 19th win of the season, placing them at the top of the Saudi Pro League with 58 points from 23 games. The team has only lost once this season and currently leads second-placed Al Ahli by two points. Ronaldo’s return to form is significant, especially after he missed previous matches due to dissatisfaction with the club’s lack of financial support during the recent transfer window. His performance is crucial for Al Nassr as they aim to secure the league title.
What’s Next
Looking ahead, Al Nassr will continue to rely on Ronaldo’s scoring ability as they push for the championship. Additionally, Sadio Mané is expected to extend his contract with the club, further solidifying the team’s attacking prowess. As the season progresses, Al Nassr’s ability to maintain their lead and enhance their squad will be pivotal in their quest for success in the Saudi Pro League.