Al-Nassr Triumphs Over Neom with Strong Second Half Performance

Al-Nassr and Neom engaged in a thrilling first half that, despite being goalless, featured several opportunities for both teams to score. Al-Nassr, showcasing their dominance, saw close attempts from Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane, all of whom failed to convert their chances into goals.

Ronaldo notably missed what could have been the easiest chance of the half, sending a header off target from a close range. Likewise, Mane squandered a straightforward opportunity, mishitting the ball while in the box.

However, the Saudi giants quickly broke the deadlock in the second half. In-form midfielder and former Chelsea star Angelo Gabriel opened the scoring with an exquisite finish. In the 48th minute, Ronaldo took a free-kick from just outside the penalty area, which was blocked by Neom defenders. Gabriel seized the rebound to score with a well-placed shot.

Just seven minutes later, Neom faced a significant setback when striker Luciano Rodríguez received a red card for a reckless challenge. The Uruguayan was positioned at the edge of the box to meet a cross when he intentionally elbowed an Al-Nassr player in the neck. Following a VAR consultation, the referee issued a red card, further complicating Neom’s situation after the injury loss of ex-Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette in the first half.

Ronaldo subsequently marked his 953rd career goal, converting a penalty after his initial close-range attempt was saved by compatriot Luis Maximiano. Joao Felix pursued the rebound and was fouled, leading to the spot-kick.

In the 84th minute, Ahmed Abdo pulled one back for Neom, capitalizing on a lapse from Mohamed Simakan. Abdo received the ball behind Simakan and calmly slotted it home. However, Neom’s joy was short-lived as Joao Felix later scored the third goal, sealing a crucial victory for Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo’s excellent performance throughout the match, including his impactful penalty goal, helped Al-Nassr extend their winning streak in the Saudi Pro League to eight games. Rodríguez’s reckless actions proved detrimental for Neom, as his red card shifted the game’s dynamics. Until that point, Neom had been fiercely contesting the match, but the dismissal changed the course entirely, especially significant given Lacazette’s earlier exit due to injury.