Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name into Saudi football history by scoring his 100th goal for Al Nassr in the Saudi Super Cup final at the Hong Kong Stadium on Saturday.
The Portuguese star gave his side the lead in the first half with a confident penalty, making him the first player to score 100 or more goals for four different clubs and his national team.
Franck Kessié equalized for Al Ahli just before halftime with a stunning strike, sending both teams into the break level at 1-1.
Drama in the Final Stages
The second half was just as explosive. Marcelo Brozović fired Al Nassr back in front in the 82nd minute with a composed finish, but Al Ahli’s Roger Ibañez struck in the dying moments of regulation time to force a 2-2 draw and send the contest into penalties.
Both sides held firm through 90 minutes, with near misses from Riyad Mahrez and Joao Felix adding to the drama.
Al Ahli Triumph on Penalties
In the penalty shootout, Al Ahli held their nerves better, converting all but one of their spot-kicks. Mahrez and Galeno were clinical, while Edouard Mendy’s crucial save from Al-Khaibari gave Al Ahli the advantage. Galeno sealed the win, making it 5-3 on penalties and securing the Saudi Super Cup for Al Ahli.
For Ronaldo and Al Nassr, the night ended in heartbreak despite a valiant effort. For Al Ahli, it was a night of glory and redemption, lifting one of Saudi Arabia’s most prestigious trophies.
