Cristiano Ronaldo’s frustrations continue as Al-Nassr draw 1-1 with Al-Raed

Luis Castro’s team sought redemption after a heavy Super Cup loss and saw Cristiano Ronaldo score with a header in the 34th minute, assisted by Sadio Mane.

Chirag

August 23, 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo Al Nasser Woes Continue — Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images

Luis Castro’s team entered the match eager to make amends after their heavy defeat to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup final. Cristiano Ronaldo was determined to kick off the league campaign with a win and delivered with a spectacular header in the 34th minute, thanks to an impeccable cross from Sadio Mane. The first half saw few chances, and Ronaldo’s goal was the sole highlight as the teams went into the break.

Al-Raed was awarded a penalty in the 48th minute after Mohamed Fouzair nearly intercepted a defensive backpass. Aymeric Laporte’s slight contact on Fouzair led to a penalty, though Laporte’s initial red card was reduced to yellow after VAR review. Fouzair converted the penalty into the bottom right corner to level the score.

After conceding, Al-Nassr intensified their efforts and nearly regained the lead in the 75th minute when Ronaldo scored again. However, following an extended VAR review that took the entire drinks break, Ronaldo was ruled offside by a fraction.

In the closing moments, Al-Nassr had another chance when the referee reviewed a potential penalty after a VAR referral, but the original decision stood. As a result, Al-Nassr had to settle for a draw against a team that finished 12th last season.

Ronaldo netted his 25th goal of the year against Al-Raed, bringing him just eight goals away from reaching the milestone of 900 career goals for both club and country.

Ronaldo’s challenging start to the 2024-25 season persisted, and he will aim to turn things around when his team faces Al-Feiha next Tuesday in the Saudi Pro League.