Ronaldo’s Double Secures Vital Win for Al-Nassr in Riyadh Derby Thriller

Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a stunning brace to keep Al-Nassr’s title dreams alive, as they triumphed 3-1 over fierce rivals Al-Hilal in a thrilling Riyadh derby. The Portuguese star netted twice in the second half, including a coolly taken penalty in the dying minutes, to hand his side a crucial victory.

The first half saw little in the way of clear-cut chances, though Sadio Mane and Jhon Duran both had efforts blocked. Al-Hilal’s Aiman Yahya forced a save from Al-Nassr’s keeper Yassine Bounou late in the first period, but the game came alive in stoppage time. Ali Al Hassan broke the deadlock with a stunning curling shot from the edge of the box, giving Al-Nassr a 1-0 lead at the break.

The second half saw Al-Nassr double their lead early on. Mane’s clever assist found Ronaldo, who finished with his left foot to make it 2-0. But Al-Hilal wasn’t done yet—Ali Al Bulayhi’s header reduced the deficit to 2-1, setting the stage for a nerve-wracking finish.

As Al-Hilal pushed for an equalizer, Al-Nassr sealed the deal with a late penalty. Ronaldo, ever the composed figure, stepped up and slotted the ball down the middle, securing the three points and moving Al-Nassr to third place in the standings.

With this victory, Al-Nassr’s title challenge stays very much alive as the 2025 season heats up.