Cristiano Ronaldo once again proved to be the key player for Al-Nassr. On Friday, the Portuguese star stepped up under pressure and converted a last-minute penalty, securing a crucial lead for his team. Although Al-Shabab had a chance to equalize shortly afterward, they missed their own penalty, sealing Al-Nassr’s victory.
This win keeps Al-Nassr within reach of the Saudi Pro League leaders, Al-Hilal. Facing a formidable opponent in Al-Shabab, who were just two points behind them, Al-Nassr needed this result to stay in contention for the title, and Ronaldo ensured they did just that.
Al-Nassr takes early lead
The first half was tightly contested, with few clear chances for either side. It wasn’t until 24 minutes into the second half that Aymeric Laporte put Al-Nassr ahead, scoring with a precise left-footed shot following a corner and a chaotic sequence of rebounds inside the box.
However, Al-Nassr’s lead didn’t last long. In the 90th minute, substitute Ali Al-Hassan inadvertently scored an own goal while trying to block a driven cross from Nawaf Al-Sadi, allowing Al-Shabab to level the score.
Ronaldo converts the spot-kick
Despite the late equalizer, Al-Nassr remained determined and continued to push for a winner. Their efforts paid off when Abdulrahman Ghareeb was fouled inside the box during stoppage time, leading to a penalty. Ronaldo, as expected, took the responsibility and calmly converted the spot-kick.
With over 97 minutes on the clock, the game still had more drama to unfold. Al-Shabab launched one final attack, earning a penalty after a VAR review.
🚨🚨| GOAL: CRISTIANO RONALDO GIVES AL NASSR THE LEAD IN THE LAST MINUTE OF THE GAME!!!
Al Shabab 1-2 Al Nassr
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) October 18, 2024
Ronaldo gives Al-Nassr a hard fought win
However, unlike Ronaldo, Al-Shabab’s Abderrazak Hamdallah failed to convert, hitting the post. This allowed Al-Nassr to secure a hard-fought victory and celebrate their win.
At the top of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal leads with 21 points after seven straight wins. Despite Neymar Jr.’s absence, they managed a convincing 3-0 win against Al Feiha. Al-Nassr, now in second place with 17 points, are being closely pursued by Karim Benzema’s Al-Ittihad, who sit at 15 points and have a game in hand against Al Qadisiya.
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