Cristiano Ronaldo scores brace on return from injury as Al-Nassr claim dominant win over Al-Najma
Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals on his return from injury as Al-Nassr thrashed Al-Najma 5-2 in the Saudi Pro League on Friday.
The experienced forward picked up a hamstring injury during the club’s 3-1 win over Al-Fayha in February.
After remaining out for more than a month, Ronaldo returned to the starting team against Al-Najma and made an immediate impact.
The Portuguese scored a penalty in the 56th minute before adding another with a classic poacher’s finish.
Collecting a low cross from Nawaf Bu Washl, Ronaldo turned home from close range in the 73rd minute.
The goal was initially ruled out by the assistant referee for offside, but VAR eventually overturned the decision.
Ronaldo has now reached 967 goals in his career as he aims to become the first player in history to score 1,000.
The crucial victory leaves Al-Nassr six points clear at the top of the Pro League table.
Al-Hilal, who have a game in hand over their rivals, will look to close the gap when they take on Al-Taawoun on Saturday.
Ronaldo has been sensational with his performances since joining Al-Nassr in December 2022.
But despite his individual scoring feats, he has failed to win major silverware with the Knight of Najd.
Ronaldo has a brilliant opportunity to break his trophy drought this year, as Al-Nassr are six points clear at the top of the league table with seven games remaining.