Superstar attacker Cristiano Ronaldo starred once again for Al-Nassr, turning provider on Friday afternoon as they looked to return to the top of the Saudi Pro League table
Cristiano Ronaldo appears to be settling nicely into his new home in Saudi Arabia, if Al Nassr’s latest game is anything to go by.
The Knights of Najd hosted Al Taawoun in the Saudi Pro League on Friday afternoon, looking to extend their lead at the top of the table. Ronaldo once again started the game up-front and also continued in the role of captain.
Having scored four goals in his most recent outing, the clash at Mrsool Park saw the superstar turn provider. Early in the first-half, Al Nassr’s midfield won the ball back after a throw and fired it forward.
After a team-mate brought the pass under control, Ronaldo ran onto it and delivered a brilliant curling pass forward, which alluded the Al Taawoun defence. Instead the pass found its way to Al-Nassr winger Abdulrahman Ghareeb.
The winger burst into the box before firing the ball into the far post past Taawoun keeper Mailson. Ronaldo immediately sprinted towards Ghareeb, who had run into the corner to celebrate.
The Portugal international raised his arms in celebration and was the first to reach Ghareeb, embracing his team-mate to congratulate him. As the group of Al-Nassr players broke up to return to their half, Ronaldo could be seen smiling.
Ronaldo delivered a world-class assist to help put Al-Nassr ahead ( Image: Sky Sports)
That telling reaction shows that he is enjoying his football and is very much part of the Al-Nassr team, despite taking a penalty off a team-mate two weeks ago. Al-Nassr held onto their lead for the rest of the first-half.
A win would see them move level on points with Al-Ittihad at the top of the table, though they would surpass their title rivals on goal difference. Al-Nassr boss Rudi Garcia has already insisted that Ronaldo has settled in well with his new team-mates.
He said after Ronaldo’s four-goal haul: “Ronaldo has reached a great stage of homogeneity and harmony with his teammates. Over time, his team-mates realised what he wanted and when he will score. I think it was a good night for Cristiano Ronaldo because he scored four goals.”
Ronaldo had the chance to double his side’s lead soon after Ghareeb’s strike, but his shot towards goal was easily saved. Right at the end of the first period, Al-Nassr had strong calls for a penalty waved away by the referee.
Ronaldo led his side’s protestations and could be seen shouting angrily at the fourth official as the players left the pitch for the half-time break.
