Ronaldo’s Resilience Shines Amidst Al-Nassr’s Draw with Al-Ettifaq

Al-Nassr faced a significant challenge early in the match when left-back Saad Fahad received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Madallah Alolayan. The referee quickly dismissed Fahad, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, and Fahad was given a yellow card instead, allowing Al-Nassr to continue with a full squad.

Despite this reprieve, it was Al-Ettifaq who struck first, doing so against the run of play. Wijnaldum capitalized on a swift counter-attack, advancing with intent and delivering a powerful shot from distance that found its way past the Al-Nassr goalkeeper.

Stung by this setback, Al-Nassr surged forward in search of an equalizer, controlling possession and territory as Ronaldo tirelessly led the attack. However, despite their dominance, they struggled to create clear scoring opportunities, with Ronaldo, tightly marked by Al-Ettifaq’s defense, failing to register a shot on target before halftime. Promising plays often faltered before adequately testing the opposition’s goalkeeper.

The halftime talk evidently had a positive impact, as Al-Nassr re-emerged with renewed vigor. They leveled the score within a minute of the restart when Angelo Gomes drove in from the left and delivered a precise pass to Joao Felix at the edge of the area. Felix then executed a low, accurate shot into the corner, rejuvenating the home crowd’s spirit. Just over an hour into the match, Al-Nassr took the lead when Felix’s close-range effort deflected off Ronaldo’s back and looped into the net, although their joy was short-lived.

Al-Ettifaq demonstrated resilience and were rewarded when Wijnaldum scored again, timing his run impeccably to secure a brace and earn a crucial point for the visitors.

Post-match, 40-year-old Ronaldo conveyed an optimistic outlook, affirming that Al-Nassr remains on the right path toward future success. On Instagram, he stated: “We are on the right path and we know what we need to do in 2026! 🟡🔵”.

Ronaldo also expressed his unwavering ambition at the Globe Soccer Awards, saying: “It’s demanding to keep playing, but I still have the passion and I’m motivated to continue. It doesn’t matter if I play in the Middle East or Europe; I want to keep winning titles and reach the milestone everyone knows. I’m confident I’ll get there (1000 goals) if there are no injuries. Enjoy the night and Happy New Year.”

This determination continues to shape Ronaldo’s pivotal role at both the club and international levels. He remains a key figure in Al-Nassr’s quest to lift the Saudi Pro League trophy, an honor he has yet to achieve since joining in 2023, with the Arab Club Champions Cup standing as his only silverware in Riyadh.

Looking ahead, Ronaldo is anticipated to lead Portugal in the 2026 World Cup. A damaging defeat to the Republic of Ireland, which resulted in his sending off, briefly cast doubt on the team’s direction. Nevertheless, he will return for the Selecao’s first group stage match in the United States after receiving a reprieve from FIFA. With the World Cup approaching and Al-Nassr set to open their 2026 season against Al-Ahli, led by Ivan Toney, Ronaldo’s focus remains steadfastly on achieving trophies. A successful campaign in Saudi Arabia and leading Portugal to glory on the world stage could reignite discussions surrounding his status as the greatest of all time.