Ronaldo’s wait for a major trophy with Al-Nassr continues after a dramatic Saudi Super Cup defeat to Al Ahli on Saturday night in Riyadh. The Portuguese forward looked set to finally lift silverware for the club when he opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 15th minute, a landmark goal that took his tally to 100 for Al-Nassr.
The game started brightly for Al-Nassr as they dominated possession early and pressed high up the pitch. Ronaldo’s goal seemed to settle them, but Al Ahli grew into the contest. Franck Kessié struck an equalizer just before halftime, finishing off a slick move that left Al-Nassr’s defense flat-footed.
The second half was fiercely contested, with both sides creating chances. Marcelo Brozović restored Al-Nassr’s lead in the 82nd minute, latching onto a loose ball and firing past Édouard Mendy. The Al-Nassr fans erupted in celebration, believing the cup was finally theirs.
But Al Ahli refused to give up. As the clock ticked toward full time, Roger Ibañez rose highest from a corner to head in a dramatic 89th-minute equalizer, silencing the Al-Nassr faithful and sending the match to penalties.
In the shootout, nerves took over. Al Ahli converted all of their kicks with composure, while Édouard Mendy produced the decisive moment by saving Abdullah Al-Khaibari’s attempt. Wenderson Galeno then stepped up to bury the winning penalty, sparking wild celebrations as Al Ahli lifted their first Saudi Super Cup since 2016.
For Ronaldo, it was another night of frustration. Despite reaching a personal milestone with his 100th goal for the club, the defeat means his wait for a major trophy in Saudi Arabia goes on. For Al Ahli, this victory marks a return to prominence and a statement that they are once again a force to be reckoned with in Saudi football.
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