Once again, Cristiano Ronaldo displayed his clutch performance by scoring a crucial goal for Al Nassr in the Arab Club Champions Cup against Egyptian side Zamalek.
During the match, Al Nassr introduced their new signing, Sadio Mane, in the second half. However, they fell behind 1-0 when Ahmed Sayed converted a penalty in the 53rd minute.
With just three minutes left in normal time, captain Cristiano Ronaldo came to the rescue and scored a vital equalizer in the final Group C fixture.
Facing the possibility of being eliminated from the competition, Al Nassr managed to deliver a cross from the left flank by Ghislain Konan to the far post.
In typical fashion, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner displayed his excellence in heading ability and skillfully found the back of the net, as he has done on numerous occasions throughout his illustrious career.
THE SAVIOUR. pic.twitter.com/uC8F77oOAL
GOAL NUMBER 840 FOR THE GREATEST CRISTIANO RONALDO 🐐
— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) August 3, 2023
After scoring the crucial equalizer, Cristiano Ronaldo quickly retrieved the ball and rushed back to the halfway line as Al Nassr pushed for a winning goal.
Ronaldo’s goal, which marked the 840th of his remarkable career, proved to be sufficient in securing their passage to the quarter-finals.
Al Nassr concluded the group stage in second place in Group C, earning five points in total. They finished one point ahead of Zamalek and two points behind group winners Al Shabab.
It was Ronaldo’s second goal in three competitive games this season and his 16th in 22 games for Al Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo has now amassed a total of 300 goals without relying on his preferred right foot. He achieved this milestone through headers and efforts using his left foot.
Al Nassr will begin their new Saudi Pro League campaign against Al Ettifaq, a team managed by Steven Gerrard and boasting new signings Jordan Henderson and Moussa Dembele.
The new domestic season kicks off for Al Nassr on Monday, 14th August, followed by a match against Al Taawoun four days later.
After securing a second-place finish in the previous term, Luis Castro’s team is also participating in the AFC Champions League and has a play-off fixture scheduled for 22nd August. However, their opponent is yet to be determined.