Cristiano Ronaldo continued his impressive form in 2024, securing two goals in as many games as Al Nassr triumphed over Al Fateh with a 2-1 victory on February 17 in the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo’s initial competitive appearance in 2024 resulted in a crucial goal against Al Feiha, leading Al Nassr to a 1-0 win in the first leg of their AFC Champions League tie. The Portuguese legend maintained his scoring prowess by breaking the deadlock in the match against Al Fateh, scoring a splendid first-time finish. However, Al Nassr’s lead was short-lived, as Salem Al Najdi equalized with a powerful shot just 12 minutes later.
Despite a less convincing performance from Al Nassr in the second half, a decisive moment of brilliance secured the three points, with Ronaldo’s compatriot Otavio converting a powerful diving header midway through the half. Luis Castro’s team now trails league leaders Al Hilal by four points, who have a game in hand.
The final score of the Al Nassr vs. Al Fateh match was 2-1, with Ronaldo (17′) and Otavio (72′) scoring for Al Nassr, and Al Najdi (29′) finding the net for Al Fateh.
Confirmed lineups for the match were as follows:
Al Nassr (4-2-3-1): Al Najjar (GK) — Al Ghanam, Al Amri, Laporte, Telles — Al Khaibari, Brozovic — Talisca, Otavio, Mane — Ronaldo.
Al Fateh (4-2-3-1): Rinne (GK) — Al Zubaidi, Denayer, Saadane, Al Najdi — Ali, Bendebka — Batna, Zelarayan, Tello — Djaniny.
Ronaldo showcased his scoring prowess by connecting smoothly with a low cross from Al Ghanam. Despite Al Nassr’s defensive vulnerabilities, Al Najdi’s equalizer and Otavio’s header secured the victory.
The title race remains in Al Hilal’s control, but with Ronaldo’s consistent goal-scoring, Al Nassr remains a contender. The team will look to maintain momentum in the upcoming fixtures, including the clash with Al Feiha in the AFC Champions League.
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Al Nassr’s starting lineup included new addition Aziz Behich, who made his debut in the Saudi Pro League after joining on loan from Melbourne City. Sadio Mane also returned to the starting XI.
The match was broadcasted on various platforms globally, including Fox Soccer Plus and Fox Deportes in the USA, 10 Play in Australia, DAZN in Canada and the UK, and Sony Ten 1 and Sony Ten 5 in India. Streaming options included Fubo, Fox Sports app/website, JioTV, Sony LIV, and DAZN, depending on the region.”
Note: The details provided in the rewritten blog post are based on the information provided in the original text.