Cristiano Ronaldo’s quest for his first trophy in Saudi Arabia faced another setback as Al-Nassr FC squandered a late lead in a crucial title race clash. In the 32nd matchday of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Nassr drew 1-1 with city rivals and record champions Al-Hilal SFC, thanks to a dramatic own goal by goalkeeper Bento deep into stoppage time.
Al-Nassr had taken the lead in the 37th minute when former RB Leipzig defender Mohamed Simakan headed home from a corner delivered by ex-Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman. The home side seemed destined to secure a vital victory until Bento inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 98th minute, leveling the score and extending Ronaldo’s wait for a team honor.
With 83 points after 33 games, Al-Nassr holds a narrow advantage over Al-Hilal, who sit at 78 points with two matches remaining in the season. Ronaldo and his teammates will face Damac FC at home in their final fixture next week, but they could clinch the title earlier if Al-Hilal fails to beat NEOM SC this Saturday.
Al-Nassr last claimed the league championship in 2019, and a title this season would mark the 11th in club history. However, for Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr from Manchester United in January 2023, personal success has not translated into team glory. In 141 competitive appearances for the capital club, he has scored 121 goals and provided 24 assists, but silverware has proven elusive. During the draw with Al-Hilal—a fellow Public Investment Fund-owned club like Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli—Ronaldo was substituted in the 83rd minute.
