Cristiano Ronaldo nets two goals as Al Nassr comfortably defeat Al Hazem.
Cristiano Ronaldo netted two goals as Al Nassr triumphed over Al Hazem with a score of 4-0, ascending to the top of the Saudi Pro League.
The 41-year-old Portuguese star, who had been absent for two league fixtures and an AFC Cup match earlier this month due to an alleged strike in response to his club’s inactivity in the January transfer window, provided the home team with an early advantage after 13 minutes.
Kingsley Coman located Ronaldo in a congested penalty area, where he controlled the ball with his right foot before sending a left-footed shot into the far corner. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review for offside, marking Ronaldo’s 500th goal since turning 30.
French striker Coman contributed a second goal in the 30th minute, assisted by João Felix following a quick passing sequence, while Ronaldo had another attempt just before halftime that was disallowed for offside.
After Ronaldo was again thwarted by an offside call, Brazilian Angelo extended the lead to 3-0 in the 77th minute with an impressive solo run from deep within his own half.
Ronaldo ultimately secured his second goal of the match with 10 minutes remaining, receiving a short pass from Coman on the left side of the penalty area before firing in a precise angled shot.
After another VAR check for offside, the goal was upheld as Al Nassr completed their eighth consecutive league victory, placing them one point ahead of rivals Al Hilal, who were held to a 1-1 draw at home by 10-man Al Ittihad.
